Wolfspeed Appoints Elif Balkas as New Chief Technology Officer

Rhea-AI Summary

Wolfspeed, Inc. (NYSE: WOLF) has promoted Elif Balkas to Chief Technology Officer, succeeding the late Dr. John Palmour. Balkas, who joined in 2006, has played a crucial role in technology and production advancements. CEO Gregg Lowe expressed confidence in her leadership, noting her contributions to Silicon Carbide technology. With over 20 years in the industry, Balkas aims to drive innovation and efficiency, continuing the legacy of her predecessor. Wolfspeed specializes in Silicon Carbide and GaN technologies for sustainable energy solutions.

Positive

• Elif Balkas's promotion is expected to strengthen leadership and drive innovation in Silicon Carbide technology.
• Balkas has over 20 years of industry experience, which could enhance the company's technical strategy.

Negative

• The departure of Dr. John Palmour could create concerns regarding continuity and company direction.

DURHAM, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- Wolfspeed, Inc. (NYSE: WOLF), the global leader in Silicon Carbide technology, today announced the promotion of Elif Balkas to Chief Technology Officer, succeeding the late Dr. John Palmour, a co-founder of Wolfspeed.

“Since her start with Wolfspeed in 2006, Elif has been instrumental in our technology and production development, and she was the clear choice to help steer Wolfspeed as we continue to lead the transition from silicon to Silicon Carbide,” said Wolfspeed CEO Gregg Lowe. “One of John’s greatest legacies is the talent he nurtured and developed on the Wolfspeed team, and we are confident Elif will continue to drive innovation in Silicon Carbide with passion, ingenuity and leadership.”

In her role as Vice President of Research and Development in Wolfspeed’s Materials organization, Balkas shaped the company’s technical strategy on wide bandgap materials and drove its development execution to maintain Wolfspeed’s position as a leader in Silicon Carbide for Power and RF device applications. She has overseen multiple significant technology milestones during her tenure at the company, including the development of 150mm and 200mm boule growth systems and processes, the dramatic reduction in crystal defect levels that saw higher device yields, and advancements in wafer processing.

“I’m excited to continue building upon the legacy that John created and unlock new innovations and applications for Silicon Carbide,” said Balkas. “It’s an exciting time of growth at Wolfspeed and I look forward to the new challenge of finding greater efficiencies as we continue to expand the reach of our technology.”

Balkas brings more than 20 years of experience in the technology industry. Prior to Wolfspeed, she served in a variety of leadership positions in R&D and operations, focusing on developing Silicon Carbide crystal growth and GaN technologies that are scalable for manufacturing purposes and that enable more efficient and powerful electronic systems. She received her Ph.D. in Materials Science from North Carolina State University and is a co-founder of the Wolfspeed Women’s Initiative, an employee resource group focused on encouraging, developing and supporting women who lead the way in innovation.

About Wolfspeed, Inc.:
Wolfspeed (NYSE: WOLF) leads the market in the worldwide adoption of Silicon Carbide and GaN technologies. We provide industry-leading solutions for efficient energy consumption and a sustainable future. Wolfspeed’s product families include Silicon Carbide materials, power devices and RF devices targeted for various applications such as electric vehicles, fast charging, 5G, renewable energy and storage, and aerospace and defense. We unleash the power of possibilities through hard work, collaboration and a passion for innovation. Learn more at www.wolfspeed.com.

Wolfspeed® is a registered trademark of Wolfspeed, Inc.

Twitter: @Wolfspeed
LinkedIn: @Wolfspeed

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230110005995/en/

Wolfspeed Investor Relations Contact:

Tyler Gronbach

Vice President, Investor Relations

919-407-4820

investorrelations@wolfspeed.com

Wolfspeed Media Contact:

Melinda Walker

Director, Corporate Communications

818-261-4585

media@wolfspeed.com

Source: Wolfspeed, Inc.

FAQ

Who is the new Chief Technology Officer of Wolfspeed?

Elif Balkas has been promoted to Chief Technology Officer at Wolfspeed.

What role did Elif Balkas play before becoming CTO of WOLF?

Balkas was the Vice President of Research and Development, focusing on wide bandgap materials.

What impact might Balkas's promotion have on Wolfspeed's future?

Her leadership could strengthen innovation and maintain the company's position in Silicon Carbide technology.

What was the reason for Dr. John Palmour's departure from Wolfspeed?

Dr. John Palmour passed away, leading to Elif Balkas's promotion.