With the wave of information technology and industrial digitalization, talents with computer science backgrounds are no longer limited to software or internet domains. In the manufacturing industry, computer engineers play equally vital roles.
Max Tu, who worked at TSMC for 18 years, is one such pioneer. From a programming novice at NCTU's Department of Computer Science to an expert in CIM and automation systems, Tu's journey proves one thing through nearly two decades of hands-on experience: understanding technology is not enough — one must also understand the industry. The stage for computer engineers is far broader than many imagine.

From NCTU Computer Science to TSMC: Entering the Manufacturing Floor

Tu graduated from the Department of Computer Science, National Chiao Tung University (Class of 1991), and received his master's degree in 1993. In 1995, shortly after military service, he donned a cleanroom suit and stepped into TSMC's fabs, officially beginning his career as an information engineer.
At that time, semiconductor production lines were still largely manual or semi-automated. His task was to maintain factory systems and ensure stable equipment operation.
"Those two years of shift work became the foundation of my entire career," he recalled with a smile. Amid the hum of machines during night shifts, he realized a crucial truth: "Programming languages become obsolete, but on-site experience never does." This first-hand understanding later enabled him to bridge IT and manufacturing departments.

A few years later, he proactively requested a transfer to the manufacturing department — from system developer to system "user."
"IT engineers often resist new features because of maintenance burdens, leading to dissatisfaction on both sides," Tu shared. "I later realized that only by understanding the shop floor can you develop truly useful systems."
Through direct observation and production experience, he came to appreciate the importance of domain knowledge." Technology is just a tool," he emphasized. "The true value lies in understanding the real-world environment."

From 8-Inch to 12-Inch: Witnessing the Rise of Automation

As the semiconductor industry entered a period of rapid growth, Tu participated in the development of TSMC's 8-inch and 12-inch CIM (Computer Integrated Manufacturing) and AMHS (Automated Material Handling System) systems.
He and his team also helped plan and integrate hardware and software for 12-inch smart manufacturing — from production scheduling and logistics systems to equipment automation and dispatching algorithms.

At one point, they experimented with rule-based dispatch systems (using human-defined logic rules). However, as production complexity increased, such methods proved insufficient, leading them to adopt genetic algorithms and optimized scheduling.
"The most efficient algorithm in theory isn’t always the most popular on the factory floor, " Tu noted.
Although algorithms can generate optimal schedules, they often produce results that are difficult for operators to interpret, reducing trust and usability. Ultimately, they implemented a hybrid dispatching model — combining the stability of human logic with the efficiency of algorithmic optimization.
From this experience, Tu learned that technical success depends on whether end users can accept and maintain the system.

Leaving TSMC: Pioneering Smart Manufacturing

After leaving TSMC in 2013, Tu joined YouThought Corporation, focusing on software development and implementation services for smart manufacturing and APS (Advanced Planning and Scheduling) systems.
His work has since spanned various industries — from semiconductors and PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards) to biotechnology and CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining — helping enterprises adopt automation and AI technologies.

He offers a word of caution, however:
"AI and machine learning have advanced rapidly, but AI is only a tool. The real challenge lies in understanding industrial problems and finding solutions that work in practice."
In Tu's view, the computer engineer of the future is not just a programmer but a designer of solutions — using algorithms to address real-world challenges. In the era of smart manufacturing, cross-disciplinary collaboration is the norm, and engineers must learn to translate algorithms into tangible production value.

Advice for Future Computer Engineers

Tu summarizes five key lessons for the next generation:

1. Define Your Direction Clearly
   Programming is only a means — the key is identifying what problem you want to solve. Each domain has its own challenges; finding your interest early helps shape a clear career path.
2. Don't Chase New Technologies Blindly
   Technologies evolve quickly; the ability to understand problems and integrate resources is more fundamental.
3. Value Communication and User Understanding
   A successful system is one that users can adopt, maintain, and benefit from. Engage with users and learn to speak their language.
4. Cherish "Zero-to-One" Experiences
   Participating in new system design and trial-and-error processes offers the fastest growth. Don't fear mistakes — they're the most valuable form of learning.
5. Develop Cross-Disciplinary Thinking
   In the age of intelligent manufacturing, computer science increasingly intersects with industrial engineering, mathematics, and even civil engineering. The value of computer engineers lies in solving real-world problems through technology.

From a programmer to a leader in smart manufacturing, Max Tu's journey demonstrates that the value of computer engineers extends far beyond lines of code — it lies in their ability to make technology shine in the real world.