How Sanjay Mehrotra is Inspiring the Next Generation of Innovators
Sanjay Mehrotra's four-decade career in technology and leadership at Micron and SanDisk has significantly impacted semiconductor innovation.
Sanjay Mehrotra, the President and CEO of Micron Technology (MU: NASDAQ), has built a distinguished career spanning over four decades in the semiconductor industry. His career traces its roots back to his early years at the Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS Pilani), where he spent the first two years of his undergraduate education. It was here that he started cultivating a passion for technology and innovation.
His education at BITS Pilani shaped his academic and professional trajectory. He often credits the institution for giving him the tools needed to excel in the world of technology. Following his time at BITS Pilani, Mehrotra transferred to UC Berkeley, where he further honed his skills and knowledge in engineering.
After completing his studies, Mehrotra co-founded SanDisk, which transformed the storage industry by developing flash memory technology. His role in the company's development was instrumental in the growth of the digital storage market, which led to numerous innovations in-memory technology. SanDisk later expanded its reach globally and became a key player in the technology sector, eventually leading to its acquisition by Western Digital in 2016. This success solidified Mehrotra’s reputation as a visionary in the tech industry.
In 2017, Mehrotra took on the CEO role at Micron Technology, a global leader in memory and storage solutions, where he focused on advancing semiconductor technology and innovation. Under his leadership, Micron expanded its capabilities in artificial intelligence (AI), 5G and automotive technologies. Mehrotra has been instrumental in guiding the company’s global team of over 48,000 employees, and he is committed to fostering an inclusive and innovative work environment.
One of the hallmarks of Mehrotra’s career is his emphasis on leadership that encourages both technological progress and social responsibility. He is a strong advocate for creating environments where innovation can thrive and he has worked to ensure that his teams at Micron are empowered to push the boundaries of what is possible in the semiconductor space. His vision for the future of technology is deeply rooted in sustainability, focusing on driving positive change that benefits both the industry and society.
Throughout his career, Mehrotra has been known for his exceptional leadership and contributions to technology. His journey inspires many in the tech community, particularly the next generation of innovators. Mehrotra has often spoken about the importance of resilience, creativity and the pursuit of one’s dreams, encouraging others to take bold steps in their careers and embrace the opportunities of the rapidly evolving technological landscape.
In November 2024, his achievements were formally recognized when BITS Pilani awarded him an honorary PhD during the institution’s annual convocation ceremony. This prestigious recognition celebrates his career and his influence on technology and society. Mehrotra’s leadership exemplifies the values of innovation, perseverance and commitment, which he continues to instil in those around him. His leadership at Micron and his legacy in the tech world continue to shape the semiconductor industry's future.
