During a decade of service in the British Army as a training instructor, Adam Jones worked with next-generation technologies like virtual reality and augmented reality. Today he brings strategic value to KLA’s semiconductor manufacturing customers through in-person and online training focused on chemical vapor deposition and chemical vapor etch as well as some smaller products.

Transitioning to a Civilian Career in Technology

As a military veteran, Adam brings a valuable background to the semiconductor industry. Asked to reflect on his transition to civilian life prior to the United Kingdom’s 2023 Armed Forces Day, Adam tells KLA Advance that he joined KLA initially as a manufacturing contracted build technician in Newport, Wales. Although he might not have been an obvious match on paper, KLA recognized his military service and soft skills, and he got the job. He moved on to a permanent role as a technical engineer when business unit manager Kathrine Crook recognized the potential of his transferable skills and took a chance on him. 

As he grew in his role and his impact broadened, Adam looked for opportunities to contribute at an even greater scale, so when a technical training position opened, he applied for the job and landed it.

Bringing Value to an Evolving Industry

“Companies that hire veterans,” Adam explains, “get refined employees who are ready to work and take on new challenges in civilian life, and this is really important in our evolving technology-focused industry. We have extensive skillsets and embody principles and core values that are assets in the workplace. Veterans not only bring commitment, discipline and time management – we also offer an inclusive and ethical mindset that can assimilate into almost any environment.”

As the semiconductor industry evolves, Adam’s training program also advances to help customers adapt and learn. His desire for continuous learning is infectious as he seeks out knowledge from KLA engineers and scientists as well as sales and marketing colleagues to help enhance the company’s training program for customers.

As is true across KLA,, the Newport site is a veteran-friendly location that welcomes current and prospective employees who served in the U.K.’s military. In 2023, KLA Newport received the Bronze Award from the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme for supporting military veterans and their families, and the company has signed the U.K.’s Armed Forces Covenant for businesses wishing to demonstrate their commitment to the military community.  

A Small Community with Big Potential

“Veterans are beneficial to any company,” Adam says. “We’ve had exposure to cutting-edge technologies, we’re adaptable, easy to train and don’t require hand-holding. Our work ethic and real-world knowledge offer a big competitive advantage.”

Adam hopes to help change people’s thinking about veterans and consider them more holistically. While many veterans may not have a university degree, their knowledge and commitment to service is significant. Adam adds, “I’m seeing a shift in mentality. Companies are more open to hiring veterans. We’re a small community, but we have unlimited potential. The semiconductor industry is a fantastic career path for veterans.”

Embodying the spirit of KLA’s tagline to “Always Keep Looking Ahead,” Adam is working toward his Bachelor of Science degree in engineering management through KLA’s tuition reimbursement program.

“I’m thankful KLA recognizes the value of veterans and gave me a chance to prove my worth,” he says.

Check out a story on other KLA military veterans and this posting on a U.S. Army veteran building a high-tech career for herself at KLA.