Autobiography of João Elmiro da Rocha Chaves: A Journey of Life, Purpose, and Leadership

Childhood in Angola

I was born on February 13, 1959, at the Hospital da Cela in the old Cela Velha, now known as Kissanga Kungo, near the former Santa Comba, currently Waku Kungo, in Angola. It was a period of significant transformations and turmoil that would shape not only the destiny of the country but also the course of my own life.

Growing up in Santa Comba was a rich and diverse experience. The region was a mosaic of cultures, languages, and traditions that ignited in me an insatiable curiosity about the world around me. The lush landscapes, with green mountains and winding rivers, served as the backdrop for my first adventures and discoveries. In this environment, I learned the values of resilience and perseverance by observing how nature and the people around me adapted to constant changes.

My earliest memories are deeply connected to my parents' store, a central hub of activity in the local community. There, I learned the value of hard work by watching my father attend to customers with dedication and honesty. My mother, a skilled seamstress, handcrafted most of my clothes using her trusty 'Oliva' sewing machine. Her meticulous work not only clothed me but also taught me the importance of precision and care in everything we do. These lessons shaped my approach to life and work, valuing attention to detail and a commitment to excellence.

The Impact of the Cold War and the Exodus

As Angola approached independence in 1975, the winds of political change intensified, bringing uncertainties and conflicts. The emerging civil war, fueled by Cold War tensions, transformed daily life into a scenario of insecurity. My family and I were forced to leave everything behind, participating in the airlift that evacuated thousands of people from the country.

This experience was a turning point in my life. I vividly remember the feeling of loss and disorientation upon leaving my homeland, but also the hope of a new beginning. Early exposure to the harsh realities of conflict and global politics instilled in me a profound sense of adaptability and courage. I learned that despite adverse circumstances, it is possible to find the strength to start over and seek opportunities amid difficulties.

Starting Anew in the Azores

We found refuge on Terceira Island in the Azores, a Portuguese archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic. The tranquility of the islands starkly contrasted with the turmoil we had left behind. The volcanic landscapes, the endless sea, and the serene rhythm of island life provided a conducive environment for reflection and new beginnings.

In the Azores, I resumed my studies and strove to integrate into the local community. Although I faced the challenge of adapting to a new cultural and linguistic environment, these experiences strengthened my character and fueled my desire to explore opportunities overseas. It was during this period that I began to envision the possibility of continuing my studies abroad, driven by the desire to expand my horizons.

Education and the Path to Engineering

Driven by a passion for learning and the desire to build a better future, I decided to pursue higher education in the United States. In 1980, I completed my first Associate of Science degree in Electrical Engineering and Technology at the Heald Institute of Technology in San Jose, California. Later, in 1992, I obtained another Associate of Science degree in Computer Science from Mission College in Santa Clara, California. My academic journey culminated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Santa Clara University in 1994.

During my university years, I immersed myself in studies, fascinated by the possibilities that technology and innovation could offer. I participated in research projects, internships, and student groups, which not only expanded my technical knowledge but also developed my leadership and teamwork skills.

The academic experience in the United States broadened my worldview and prepared me to face the challenges of a career in the electronics industry. It was a period of personal and professional growth, where each academic achievement reinforced my commitment to excellence and innovation.

Professional Career and Achievements

Beginning at ROLM

My professional journey began in 1985 at ROLM in Santa Clara, California, where I worked as a Hardware Design Engineer for 13 years. During this period, I participated in the design of an eight-port ISDN system with SCbus and ISA interfaces. I served as the Lead Engineer in a cross-functional development team on a PhoneMail release and developed a Boundary Scan ASIC for a custom 160-pin ASIC, implementing the IEEE 1149.1 (JTAG) test architecture. I also designed a VME Bus Controller, facilitating the CBX interface to a SUN workstation for software development.

Advancements at Airspeak

In 1998, I took on the role of Member of Technical Staff at Airspeak in Morgan Hill, California. There, I was responsible for designing a wireless tablet/portable PC system. As a System Architect and Hardware Design Engineer, I worked with a variety of advanced components and led a team of firmware and software engineers. I drove the project from concept to production in just nine months, demonstrating my ability to lead teams and manage complex projects.

Contributions at CATC

Between 2000 and 2001, I served as a Senior Hardware Design Engineer at CATC in Santa Clara. I worked on designs of USB/Ethernet converters and USB hubs, as well as ASIC design and simulation. I developed silicon validation boards and conducted tests, including the design and testing of a USB port tester.

Leadership at Cypress Semiconductor

From 2001 to 2007, I contributed significantly to Cypress Semiconductor, initially in San Jose, California, and later in Boise, Idaho. As a Principal Hardware Design Engineer, I led the development of the HX2LP 4-Port High-Speed Hub Reference Design Kit, ensuring compliance with CE Mark/FCC emissions and ESD standards. I also led international teams, coordinating eight board designers in India and the silicon validation team in the United States on projects like the Ayama20000 NSE and the 10Ge Framer/Mapper.

In 2007, I was promoted to Hardware Design Manager at Cypress Semiconductor, where I managed a team of six engineers developing a System Silicon Validation Platform. My responsibilities included providing strategic and tactical leadership, organizing and coordinating departmental functions, interacting with internal customers, setting priorities, and tracking project deliverables.

Achievements at Micron Technology

SSD Hardware Design Manager

In 2010, I began my journey at Micron Technology in Boise, Idaho, where my career spans over a decade. As the SSD Hardware Design Manager, I led the team that delivered world-class hardware design solutions, seamlessly transferring them to high-volume manufacturing. I established a uniform design process focused on quality, robustness, and performance while balancing cost and schedule. Under my leadership, the hardware design team grew from four to 36 engineers, developing SSD products for clients, data centers, and enterprises (SATA/SAS/PCIe) through architecture, design implementation, and validation.

SSD PE Principal Engineer - Design for Test

Between 2017 and 2019, as an SSD PE Principal Engineer - Design for Test, I developed and deployed the BGA SSD Manufacturing Test Process, from pre-screening and burn-in to manufacturing assembly and interface tests, loading customer firmware, and post-electrical visual inspections. I created Manufacturing Test Specifications and led cross-functional teams to implement manufacturing test firmware and deliver hardware and software solutions for high-volume manufacturing testers for automotive and industrial BGA SSDs.

Senior Member of Technical Staff in Manufacturing Engineering

Since 2019, I have been serving as a Senior Member of the Technical Staff in Manufacturing Engineering at Micron. I created a global communication platform utilizing Confluence and JIRA, enabling quicker and more thorough design analysis planning and execution. I lead cross-functional design and manufacturing teams to follow DFM specifications, guidelines, and continuous improvement efforts targeting higher-quality products that are more robust and cost-effective. I trained and guided third-party PCB design teams to integrate products into Micron's internal development and manufacturing infrastructures. My expertise as a subject matter expert (SME) encompasses guidance in Electrical Design for Manufacturing (DFM), Design for Debug/Test (DFT), In-Circuit Test (ICT), JTAG Boundary Scan, and Power/Signal Integrity.

Alignment with Numerology and Emergenetics

My journey is deeply connected to the insights provided by numerology and my Emergenetics profile. As someone with a Life Path Number 3, creativity, communication, and expression have always been at the core of my activities. Whether through innovative problem-solving or strategic leadership, I have always sought ways to express myself and inspire others.

The Expression Number 11, a Master Number, resonates with my intuitive and spiritual perceptions. Throughout my life, I have felt a strong sense of purpose and a calling to lead with vision and integrity. This is reflected in my Emergenetics profile, where my high assertiveness (70%) and structural thinking (30%) demonstrate my balance between decisive leadership and strategic planning—qualities that align with my Soul Urge Number 1.

My Personality Number 1 further reinforces the perception others have of me as a confident and determined leader. Whether in professional environments or personal interactions, I have always projected strength and clarity of purpose, qualities that have earned me respect and admiration from those around me.

Palmistry and Personal Insights

Palmistry readings offer another layer of self-understanding, aligning perfectly with my numerology and Emergenetics profile. My well-marked lines of life and destiny indicate a path of resilience, determination, and a clear focus on achieving my goals. The emotional stability reflected in my heart lines mirrors the balance and perception provided by my Master Number 11, while the creative and analytical mindset seen in my head lines connects to my Life Path Number 3.

These insights complement my understanding of myself, reinforcing the coherence between my personal and professional traits. I believe that self-knowledge is fundamental for continuous growth and the ability to lead effectively and empathetically.

Personal Life and Legacy

Beyond my professional achievements, I maintain a deep connection with my roots and cultural heritage. The values instilled in me during my childhood in Angola—such as the importance of family, community, and perseverance—continue to guide my decisions and actions. I take pride in my Luso-Angolan identity and value the richness that this diversity brings to my life.

In the United States, I have built a life alongside my family, sharing with them the traditions and stories of my origins. I am actively involved in community and cultural initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion, believing that the exchange of experiences enriches everyone.

Final Reflections

My journey has been one of continuous growth, both personally and professionally. I am a lifelong learner, always seeking new ways to innovate, lead, and make a positive impact on the world around me. I believe that every challenge faced is an opportunity for learning and that success is the result of a combination of passion, dedication, and purpose.

This autobiography reflects the rich mosaic of my life, integrating the deep insights of numerology, palmistry, and my Emergenetics profile. It demonstrates the coherence between my personal traits, professional achievements, and the deeper spiritual and intuitive aspects of my journey. I hope that my story serves as an inspiration to others who seek to realize their dreams, overcome adversities, and lead with purpose and integrity.