As one of the company’s fastest-growing operations, KLA Singapore has completed the first phase of a new facility, building its presence as a leading global semiconductor manufacturing and technology hub and, after the planned opening of phase 2 in 2026, expanding the company’s local workforce by 30%.

Designed strategically to address the increasing demand for process control solutions and developed with the most stringent requirements for vibration control and cleanroom protocol, the new facility underscores KLA’s commitment to supporting growth of the semiconductor industry in Singapore and globally as well as developing and nurturing local highly skilled technical talent.

“From KLA’s first foray in Singapore close to 30 years ago, we have grown in step with the maturing of Singapore’s semiconductor manufacturing industry and talent base. We’ve steadily expanded our operations here over the years to serve both regional and global customers.”

Theo Kneepkens, KLA Singapore country president and KLA senior vice president of Global Operations

Phase 2 structure will add more critical space, bringing the total facility capacity to 420,000 square feet, further expanding cleanroom space as well as KLA’s local R&D facilities. 

Ranked as a Best Employer of Singapore for consecutive years, the KLA Singapore workforce — which includes engineers, research scientists and problem-solvers — develop and manufacture leading-edge technologies to build products better, faster and cheaper to help drive customers’ success. 

KLA Advance asked some longtime employees to talk about their careers within the company:

Vincent Foo, Senior Manager, Asia Facilities

In just nine years, Vincent’s role at KLA Singapore has grown from a local individual contributor to a senior manager with regional responsibilities.

After working as an engineer for a microelectronics company, Vincent joined KLA Singapore in 2015 and has grown into roles that include cleanroom design and responsibility for construction at sites in Asia, maintenance, engineering, special projects and the company’s real estate transactions in Singapore and South Korea.

Vincent is motivated by contributing to his team’s success, which he says advances KLA and the wider semiconductor industry. He finds satisfaction in applying his knowledge and skills to every initiative and constantly learning.

“Our work in Singapore developing leading-edge technologies is important because our facilities contribute to the long-term impact and success for customers and KLA alike – all while we advance our own professional skills.”

Vincent Foo, senior manager, Asia Facilities

Laurent Hermans ICOS Software and Product Engineering Manager, 
KLA Singapore

Laurent joined KLA as a 3D vision engineer in 1999, contributing his experience with leading-edge technology to help make a tangible impact on the semiconductor industry.

As Vision Team lead, he worked closely with customers and KLA’s field engineers and managers. By working in a global company that invents impactful technologies, Laurent helped customers meet their challenges in an evolving semiconductor industry – and positioned himself on a course for career growth.

Laurent visited Singapore frequently. He eventually relocated to Singapore as software manager to be closer to the company’s customers and to set up the local R&D team. Laurent collaborated with multiple product divisions in Singapore and abroad, which he explains is key to supporting customers.

“Alignment among many very interesting and smart people with their own ideas and specialties helps us accomplish great things. On customer visits, it’s gratifying to feel that people are happy for KLA’s support and that our solutions deliver results.”

Laurent Hermans, ICOS software and product engineering manager, 
KLA Singapore

Huang Xiaohua, Manufacturing Design Engineer

Xiaohua joined KLA Singapore as an associate test engineer in 2006. From the start, Xiaohua learned new skills that positioned her to take on challenging projects that expanded her responsibilities and sped career growth. 

Now a manufacturing design engineer since 2011, Xiaohua supports manufacturing team on the technical issue and as well as continuous improvement and new product introduction projects. Her mentors and peers are a constant source of encouragement.

”You can’t find a culture quite like what I have experienced in KLA. Active collaboration is important, especially in an environment where people are constantly working on the edges of deep science.”

Huang Xiaohua, manufacturing design engineer

It’s this KLA’s team-oriented mindset, coupled with Xiaohua’s passion for engineering and technologies, that keeps her motivated.

“Whether you’re an optics, systems, electrical or mechanical engineer, every individual plays an important role in designing solutions that transform the future,” she says. “You will continue to learn and grow professionally.”

Explore a career in Singapore and globally on KLA’s website.