I manage a chip design team that's developing a next-generation network processor for use in making network switches and routers. The network processor is a new breed and lots of companies are developing network processors now. This market is at the infancy stage.

What is a typical day like at Intel?

I spend a lot of time reading, understanding and responding to e-mail. Being a design manager means that I'm copied on lots of mail intended for other people. There are always a few one-on-one meetings with members of the design team sprinkled throughout the day. I have a couple of process-oriented meetings each week to drive progress in some key areas of the design.

What is your favorite thing about working at Intel?

I like working at Intel because we deal with matters openly, honestly and directly. Posturing and office politics are kept to a minimum in the environments where I've worked.

What is most challenging about your job?

Making good decisions about matters where I'm not an expert.

What other types of jobs have you had at Intel and how did they affect your career growth?

In chip design and management, I've done most everything you could ask to do. I've always focused on doing rewarding and interesting things. I haven't really sought career growth or higher rungs on the corporate ladder. It's the focus on doing valuable work that has led to natural career growth. My interests have shifted over time. I now have a greater interest in developing people, so a management role is more rewarding than a technical role.

What do you do for fun?

I like to go hiking whenever I can. I also like short road races (5 or 10K). I'm in the process of relocating to Massachusetts from the west so there's plenty of opportunity for discovering new towns, beaches and lakes.