CEO Insights Magazine

As nations strengthen their technological foundations, Taiwan stands out as a dynamic hub, nurturing a new generation of leaders who blend scientific insight with entrepreneurial ambition. These changemakers are not only driving advancements within their own enterprises but are also influencing the global trajectory of advanced manufacturing, sustainability, and industrial transformation.

Today, Dr Kuan Wei Chen is a distinguished name, leading as Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer of Taichi Metal Material Technology, a company redefining how cutting-edge materials can revolutionize industries. His journey exemplifies both intellectual depth and courageous reinvention.

After earning his PhD in Mechanical Engineering in 2010 and completing postdoctoral research at National Cheng Kung University (NCKU), Dr Chen once envisioned a future in academia, guided by his enduring passion for research.

But with Taiwan’s shifting demographic landscape and the growing uncertainty surrounding the long-term stability of academic institutions, he made a pivotal choice to transform ideas into impact.

Recognizing that many groundbreaking research outcomes end their lives as journal publications rather than becoming industrial solutions, Dr Chen left the academic track to establish Taichi Metal Material Technology. His mission is clear: to develop practical, transformative technologies that address real industrial bottlenecks while retaining scientific depth. This vision has not only propelled his company forward but has also earned it global recognition.

Today, Dr Chen’s journey reflects the story of modern technological leadership, where academic excellence meets entrepreneurial audacity, and where innovation is not just conceived in the lab but forged into solutions that reshape industries worldwide.

What approaches have you employed to design and implement a technology strategy that seamlessly aligns with your organization’s overarching business goals?

After establishing Taichi Metal Material Technology, our primary objective was to address real-world industrial challenges by delivering comprehensive, end-to-end solutions. This mission soon brought us face-to-face with long-standing bottlenecks that had resisted resolution for decades.

To overcome them, I harnessed the unique characteristics of liquid metal alloys and pioneered new processing techniques around these materials. By integrating advanced materials with novel processes, we secured multiple international invention patents, underscoring the transformative power of purposeful, material-driven technological advancement.

What is your vision for the future of technology in the industry, and how do you intend to lead and shape the path toward that future?

Being based in Taiwan, our strategic focus has naturally gravitated toward the semiconductor sector. A significant portion of our work has centered on advanced applications, particularly the thinning and micro-structuring of ceramic substrates and silicon carbide (SiC) wafers.

Yet, our innovation extends well beyond semiconductors. We have addressed critical issues in traditional industries, including surface treatment of metal components, enhancing tool and mold durability, and improving resistance to wear and corrosion.

I believe the industry’s future will be defined by the convergence of software and hardware. With AI and computing power advancing rapidly, and material performance and machining precision reaching new heights, this fusion will spark breakthrough applications.

Taichi Metal Material Technology remains dedicated to leading this evolution through material innovation and intelligent manufacturing.

Could you share insights into your leadership philosophy and the key principles or methodologies that guide your approach as a leader?

I would describe my leadership style as open, collaborative, and distinctly different from conventional top-down or high-pressure models. I prefer to begin by sharing my thoughts and vision with the team, then actively encourage them to contribute their perspectives and ideas.

Once everyone’s input is gathered, I focus on synthesizing those viewpoints into a well-defined, actionable plan.

This inclusive approach fosters creativity, strengthens team engagement, and empowers individuals to take ownership of the outcomes, ultimately leading to more effective and innovative solutions.

How do you stay informed about evolving industry trends to effectively guide your organization toward future growth and innovation?

I consistently make it a priority to stay informed by consuming a wide range of current information, including articles, industry reports, and research publications. Additionally, I engage in regular dis­cussions with professionals across various sectors to gain insights into their latest developments and future strategies.

These interactions and knowledge sources enable me to anticipate emerging market trends, identify potential challenges in advance, and adjust our R&D direction proactively. This approach also helps in optimizing resource allocation, ensuring that our organization remains agile, forward-looking, and well-positioned for sustained innovation.

What is the ultimate vision or long-term destination you are aiming to achieve?

My objective is to guide the team beyond the startup stage and evolve into a more established, large-scale organization. I envision us becoming a resilient and sustainable industry player, one that creates meaningful impact and delivers tangible value to society.

Drawing from your industry experience, what guidance or insights would you offer to emerging leaders aiming to make their mark in this field?

To remain at the forefront of innovation, cultivating a cross-disciplinary mindset is essential. Today’s industrial challenges are seldom resolved within the confines of a single domain. True breakthroughs often emerge by integrating ideas and technologies from multiple fields.

Dr Kuan Wei Chen, Co-Founder & CTO, Taichi Metal Material Technology

With a PhD in Mechanical Engineering and postdoctoral experience at NCKU, Kuan Wei Chen co-founded Taichi Metal Material Technology, pioneering material innovations and driving practical, industry-transforming solutions.