What was your first job and what did you learn from it?

It was hard finding work, even with a master's degree in engineering. I didn't have the work experience that many American students had. My first job was at Digital in Colorado Springs. Thanks to a patient mentor, I learned good design skills and the differences between academics and building a real product. It gave me the engineering skills and confidence I needed to tackle harder projects.

What inspired you to choose your current field?

I always enjoyed math and science and my parents encouraged me to follow whatever path I chose. Designing computer chips appealed to me because it was challenging and I thought it was where the most innovative work could be done. There wasn't much in the way of computer graphics when I was in school. I started working in graphics at Silicon Graphics. I was excited by the new kinds of applications that could be developed on the machines we were building.

Why would you encourage other women to choose careers in your field?

Both graphics and chip design are exciting fields. Whether you choose hardware or software these skills will remain in high demand.

I encourage young girls to develop math and science skills starting in elementary school. Continue taking courses in high school. It doesn't matter which branch of science you choose. Pick something that is fun. Take programming courses and try to use graphics to solve some problem that interests you. Some of the best work comes from people who used graphics, ran across its limitations and then set out to improve the technology. Find other students who share your interests and treat you as an equal.

What motivates or inspires you on a daily basis?

Silicon Graphics is just an incredible place to work. They have some of the best engineers in the world and are dedicated to building the most advanced graphics products. I get to work with the latest tools and technology and there are new things to learn every day. It is hard not to be motivated.

What is the single most interesting element of your work?

The challenge of solving hard problems.

Why is your industry important to society?

Many people think of computer graphics as only being used for Hollywood special effects. In reality, graphics is about enabling people to visualize information and ideas. It is used by doctors to analyze medical images, by pharmaceutical companies to develop new medicines, by scientists to study the environment and by manufacturing companies to design almost every product you can think of.

What is your vision for your industry's future?

As technology advances, it will become possible to have entire graphics systems on a chip. In just a few years we expect to have 40 million gates on a single chip running at very high speeds. There will be many advances in science and medicine as people start to harness this technology.

What values are the most important to you?

I have simple values; family, integrity, and dedication. I respect people who work hard and try their best to do the right thing.

Trade-offs between home and work are hard. I am fortunate to work at a company that has very flexible work hours and my family is very supportive of my career.

What do you think are the most important character traits to develop in order to succeed professionally?

You have to be willing to work hard. Self-confidence and being well organized are also important. Building products is a team effort. You need to be able to work effectively as a member of a group.

Who is your hero, mentor or person you most admire?

When I was growing up, my hero was Marie Curie. I admired her passion and dedication to her work.

I also have a lot of respect for my parents. They had a hard life in post war China. They worked very hard and raised a family. My life is easy compared to theirs.

What is your favorite book?

I mostly read Chinese literature by women writers dealing with their struggles in China. I also read art books. It takes my mind off of work.

What technology has changed your life for the better?

Like most people, the World Wide Web has been a big benefit. I can find information about the latest graphics and chip technology or help my son with his homework without spending hours at the library.

What do you do to relax?

I enjoy painting, reading, hiking, and spending time with my teenage son.