Gary Spinner’s unexpected path into higher education and microfabrication began after he shifted from working as a teenage cook to studying electronics, eventually launching a semiconductor career with IBM and Intel before joining Georgia Tech in 1994. Over three decades, he advanced from cleanroom technician to director of operations for the Institute for Matter and Systems, helping expand the cleanroom footprint, modernize tools and infrastructure, and transform student roles into hands-on engineering opportunities. His mentorship shaped the careers of many former students, several of whom now work alongside him, and his leadership led to the development of SUMS, the software platform that streamlines cleanroom access and tool management across campus. Spinner continues to drive growth in facilities and capabilities, positioning Georgia Tech at the center of a thriving semiconductor ecosystem.

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