Debra Dolby Guillemaud
Distinguished Alumna 2014
- BS 1979, Physics, Purdue University
- MS 1980, Physics, Purdue University
- MS 1989, Electrical Engineering, Rice University
"The technical expertise at Purdue — particularly in device physics — was valuable in my various roles in integrated circuit development, which included design, technology process development and manufacturing. The broad-based physics curriculum enabled me to pursue an advanced degree in electrical engineering and to develop the critical thinking skills needed to solve technical challenges in a fast moving, highly competitive industry."
When Debra Dolby Guillemaud was an undergraduate in the Department of Physics, she was nervous about enrolling into the Electronics for Research course. It took a lot of persuading from her advisor — former Physics Professor Paul C. Simms — to get her to try the class out.
While it was one of the toughest experiences she had at Purdue, the class helped set Guillemaud onto a decades-long career in one of the nation’s top electronics companies, Texas Instruments.
At TI, Guillemaud developed six patents, became director of quality for the company’s Application Specific Products Division after becoming director of Mixed Signal Controllers business. In 2013, she climbed her way to the director of customer quality position.
Along with tech, diversity has become an important part of Guillemaud’s career at Texas Instruments. She has been an advocate and leader in recognizing the potential of a diverse workforce and creating an atmosphere where the contributions of people of different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives are recognized and valued. Guillemaud has been chairwoman of TI’s Diversity Network and she is a founding member of the Dallas Women’s Initiative steering team. Guillemaud is on the Board of Directors for North Texas Women in Technology International and she led programs for the Women’s Center of Dallas supporting leadership development.
Career Highlights
- 2013 Director, Customer Quality, Texas Instruments
- 2005 Director of Quality, Application Specific Products, Texas
- 2000 Director, Mixed Signal Controllers business, Texas Instruments
- 1993 Elected as Senior Member of the Technical Ladder