In this episode, host Nidhi Arora explores the impact of AI in semiconductor manufacturing with Jon Herlocker, founder of Tignis, Inc. Jon shares his journey from leading a billion-dollar business unit to launching a startup that uses AI, machine learning, and physics to solve challenges like yield issues, high costs, and long time-to-market for new materials. He also offers insights into innovation and securing venture capital.

• Jon shares his shift from cloud management to using AI in semiconductor manufacturing, with Tignis improving yield, reducing costs, and speeding up material development.
• Jon explains founding Tignis, inspired by cloud automation principles, to address semiconductor yield, cost, and time-to-market challenges with AI-powered solutions.
• Tignis refocused on semiconductor manufacturing due to its high potential and technical demands, after initially targeting broader industries.
• Jon stresses securing a first buyer before product development and Tignis' shift from serving equipment makers to directly addressing manufacturers' needs.
• He discusses raising venture capital, leveraging past successes to minimize risks and ensure product-market fit.
• Jon highlights the importance of passion and perseverance in overcoming personal and technical challenges in complex industries.
• He explores AI's future in industrial settings, including generative AI's potential and the need for an AI-ready data infrastructure in conservative sectors like semiconductors.