How did you get into the semiconductor industry?

Neethu: When I applied for my current role, my main motivation was to work in R&D as a test engineer. The semiconductor industry became part of my work simply because I joined Comet.

Ennio: It was through my bachelor thesis. I was looking for a company close to home that worked on exciting technology, and Comet immediately stood out. I had driven past the building many times but never really knew what happened inside. Once I learned more about the technology being developed here, I thought: why not give it a try? I’ve never regretted that decision.

What excites you most about your work at Comet?

Neethu: Many of the challenges I face are interdisciplinary. Because of that, I’ve had the chance to learn from different areas of engineering, and I continue to expand my knowledge every day. This mix of disciplines is exactly what I always hoped for in a job, and I value it a lot.

Ennio: My work never gets boring. When I support a project, I’m not limited to one task. I might be programming equipment one day, discussing design ideas the next, or troubleshooting issues that pop up unexpectedly. I usually start the morning with a plan, but I often end up doing something completely different. That variety makes every day exciting.

What do you like most about working in semi?

Neethu: Even though my work isn’t directly tied to semiconductor production, I experience the industry through the strict yield and reliability expectations our products must meet. These high standards influence everything we do.

Ennio: For me, it’s the technology and the constant push for improvement. The semiconductor industry has to constantly make components smaller, faster, and more capable, and that drive fuels everything we do at Comet. I enjoy being part of an environment where we have to innovate continuously.

How does it feel to be recognized as a 20 Under 30 winner?

Neethu: It’s definitely great to have my work acknowledged, and I’m very excited to be invited to SEMICON Europa. At the same time, there’s a part of me that wonders whether I contributed enough to deserve the award.

Ennio: It feels incredible, almost unreal. It’s the first time I’ve received an award like this, and I didn’t even know it existed until my team leader told me about the nomination. I was excited and nervous then, and now that I’ve actually won, I feel even more of both.

What’s your advice to the next generation?

Neethu: If you’re interested in a topic but intimidated by its complexity, give it a try anyway. Often, it turns out to be worth the effort.

Ennio: Question things, even the basics. Be curious, challenge assumptions, and explore what hasn’t been looked at before. That’s often where the most progress and insights come from.