Engineering the Future: Insights from a Global Tech Leader
Submitted by Elias Semenyuk
Photo by Nikon Precision Inc.
When most people hear of Nikon, they think of cameras. And for good reason; the company has been a global leader in optics and imaging for decades. But beyond the lens, Nikon operates at the cutting edge of technology in areas like 3D printing, precision microscopy, medical imaging, and even space optics.
Perhaps most critically, Nikon is a major force in something far less visible but arguably more essential: the semiconductor industry. At the heart of that is Nikon Precision Inc. (NPI), the semiconductor branch of Nikon Corporation and its U.S.-based division, producing some of the most advanced photolithography equipment in the world: technology that enables the chips inside our phones, computers, and cars.
In a recent interview with The Crescent, the CEO of NPI, Mari Shoji, offered an inside look at the future of technology, Nikon Precision’s role, and what students can do now to get involved. Speaking with great optimism, she painted a picture of an industry defined by constant change but also filled with opportunities for those eager to learn and adapt.
One of the most pressing concerns in that future is the role of AI and automation. As AI and automation rapidly evolve, concerns about job displacement have become widespread. Shoji acknowledged the uncertainty but emphasized her hope and view of the future. “Nikon has what we call Vision 2030,” she said. “We are working to build a world where machines and human beings can work together, because there are things machines cannot do, and things humans cannot do either.” Shoji sees AI not as a replacement but as an asset to increase efficiency, not erase human involvement. “I am not so worried,” she added, “It is more about how we can use it wisely.”
NPI plays a unique role in Nikon’s larger strategy. Though headquartered in Japan, Nikon’s semiconductor technology relies on collaboration between its global branches, and NPI is home to some of the most highly skilled engineers in the organization.
NPI’s work revolves around photolithography, which is the process of using light to print microscopic patterns onto silicon wafers that become semiconductor chips. Shoji mentioned that current machines are printing at scales more than 3,000 times smaller than the width of a strand of hair, and new advancements are only pushing that further. These are some of the most precise instruments ever created, capable of aligning and printing features with near-atomic accuracy, and ongoing advancements continue to push the boundaries of what is physically possible.
While Nikon is based in Japan, their work is global. Shoji explained that during the pandemic and other global disruptions, Nikon navigated challenges using teams across the U.S., Europe, and Asia. “We have faced shortages before,” she said. “But we have professional teams worldwide, and we share knowledge and resources to adapt.”
That same adaptability applies to changing government policy, such as the U.S. CHIPS Act, which aims to increase domestic semiconductor production. For now, Nikon is staying alert. “We can only wait and see,” Shoji said.
Long-term success also comes from staying ahead of changes. While the semiconductor industry used to follow a four-year silicon cycle, that rhythm has all but disappeared. “Now the market shifts so rapidly, it is difficult to foresee even six months out,” Mari Shoji said. “That is why we build long-term forecasts, to stay proactive even in uncertain conditions.”
Shoji encouraged all students to develop a mindset of curiosity and flexibility. “Imagine who you want to be,” she said. “Even if it is unclear, start picturing it. Over time, things will change. That is okay. It is called planned happenstance. Unexpected events can help you find something new.”
The message here is that flexibility matters. The door to this field is not closed for students without an engineering background. Margaret Terrell, NPI’s HR representative shared that while most of their hires come from mechanical and electrical engineering programs, they have also hired people in law, business, and HR roles, though those positions open up less frequently.
In 2022, the company hired 47 new employees, many straight out of college. “That is a big number for us,” the HR representative said, given the company’s size of about 300 total employees.
Students curious about opportunities at NPI are encouraged to reach out via LinkedIn, Handshake, or the company's career page.
No matter what you are studying, whether engineering, business, the arts, sciences, or anything else, the takeaway is clear: the future needs curious minds. And where even five nanometers can make a world of difference, sometimes all it takes is asking the right questions and being willing to explore what is possible.
Responses were edited for clarity.