NCKU Phoenix Lecture Series Fosters Global Vision and Interdisciplinary Dialogue

The first Phoenix Lecture featured NCKU Class of 1980 alumnus and Yageo Corporation Chairman Tai-Ming Chen, who delivered a talk titled “From Tainan to the World: A Global Perspective from NCKU.” Reflecting on his 40-year journey, he shared how he led Yageo’s growth into a global company with 20 R&D centers, 61 factories, and over 50,000 employees—more than 80% of them international. He offered five career tips: prioritize the right company over the right industry, choose companies with a global outlook, avoid frequent job changes, embrace technology, and stay curious.

Chairman Chen also highlighted Yageo’s modern corporate culture, which is built on openness, diversity, and cross-cultural communication, unlike traditional local models. He discussed key startup challenges such as funding and market positioning, urging students to understand industry trends and structures to build lasting ventures. After an engaging Q&A, the NCKU President Meng-Ru Shen presented Chen with a commemorative plaque and painting, honoring his inspiring talk and enduring ties to NCKU.

▲ President Shen presents a commemorative plaque and painting to alumnus Tai-Ming Chen.

▲ Students and faculty actively engage in the Q&A session.

▲ Professor Matthew Bailes delivers a lecture at NCKU.

▲ Faculty and students discuss astrophysics research with Professor Bailes.