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Sandra Rivera
Altera CEO, An Intel Company
Professional Background
Sandra Rivera is a highly respected leader in the semiconductor industry, currently at the helm of the Programmable Solutions Group (PSG) at Intel Corporation. This role emphasizes her extensive expertise in field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and their applications across multiple sectors, including data centers, communications, industrial automation, automotive advancements, aerospace, and defense. With over three decades of experience, Sandra has significantly influenced technology development, especially in the rapidly evolving sectors of data and artificial intelligence. Her journey through the ranks of Intel has firmly established her as a key figure in the semiconductor world.
Previously, Sandra spearheaded the Data Center and AI Group at Intel, where she was instrumental in pushing the boundaries of technology and innovation. Her strategic vision and collaborative leadership style have fostered research and development that have placed Intel at the forefront of the AI revolution. Under her guidance, the group made strides that enhanced efficiencies and reduced operational costs for clients globally, paving the way for transformative technology solutions.
Education and Achievements
Sandra Rivera is an alumna of Penn State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Electrical Engineering. This prestigious education laid the foundation for her future success in an industry that demands both creativity and technical acumen. Throughout her career, she has accumulated a wealth of knowledge and skills essential for navigating the complexities of semiconductor technologies.
Sandra’s career at Intel is marked by a series of progressive leadership roles. She originally joined the company as a Rotating Engineer and quickly ascended to key positions, demonstrating her dedication, technical expertise, and exceptional leadership abilities. Before taking on the leadership role at PSG, Sandra served as Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Data Center and AI Group, Executive Vice President & Chief People Officer, and Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Network Platforms Group. Her ability to lead diverse teams and promote a culture of innovation has consistently driven Intel’s advancements in both hardware capabilities and customer relations.
Notable Contributions
In addition to her technical and managerial roles, Sandra Rivera has contributed to the growth and development of industry practices. She served as the Chief Executive Officer at Altera, a company known for its innovative solutions in programmable logic, which has significantly influenced modern computing paradigms. This pivotal role underscored her ability to lead high-performance teams and manage complex technologies that define today's digital infrastructure.
Furthermore, her experience extends to board governance, having once been a board member at Equinix, where she participated in strategic decision-making for advancing data center connectivity and infrastructure. This role further complemented her leadership experience at Intel, where she has been a catalyst for meaningful changes in how technology is integrated across various platforms.
Leadership Philosophy
Sandra Rivera’s leadership philosophy centers on empowerment and collaboration. She is a staunch advocate for fostering diverse teams and ensuring that all voices are heard in the decision-making process. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and development in the workforce, passionately guiding the next generation of leaders within the tech industry. Her tenure as Chief People Officer at Intel showcases her commitment to nurturing talent and fostering an environment where innovation can thrive.
Her role has also seen her engage actively with industry organizations, serving on numerous boards and committees, including her tenure as Board Member and Marketing Committee Chair for OPNFV. These contributions reflect her dedication to not just Intel's success, but to the collective growth of the technology sector as a whole.
Looking Ahead
As the industry continuously evolves with the rise of AI and increasing demands for smart technologies, Sandra Rivera stands at the forefront, driving innovation at Intel's Programmable Solutions Group. Her vision and strategic insight into the future of technology will undoubtedly continue to influence the landscape of semiconductor solutions across various industries.
In summary, Sandra Rivera is a visionary leader whose impressive career in the semiconductor industry exemplifies both her technical expertise and her commitment to innovation and collaboration. Her journey from an engineering student at Penn State University to leading one of Intel's most critical business units is a testament to her dedication, talent, and passion for technology. As she continues to advocate for advancements in FPGAs and AI technology, there is no doubt that she will remain a pivotal force in shaping the future of the semiconductor industry.