November 1, 2001 – Round Rock, TX – DuPont Photomasks Inc. founder Kenneth Rygler is resigning to pursue personal and other interests. Rygler, exec. VP of worldwide marketing and strategic planning at DuPont, will serve as a consultant to the company.

“Fifteen years ago, Ken founded DuPont Photomasks by creating a vision of a consolidated, technology-driven, global photomask industry. His vision was right on target as the role of the photomask has transformed over time into a critical, enabling technology for the semiconductor industry,” said Peter Kirlin, chairman and CEO of DuPont Photomasks.

“Ken has played a significant role in virtually every strategic move the company has made,” continued Kirlin. “For example, he led our entry into Taiwan and Singapore, which has provided a solid foundation for our strong competitive position in Asia. In addition, Ken has been a strong advocate for the photomask industry in general, articulating the need for increased collaboration across the supply chain. We are fortunate that Ken will continue serving DuPont Photomasks in a strategic consulting role, allowing us to benefit from his wisdom and experience, as we develop and execute on strategies designed to capitalize on the many opportunities before us.”

Thomas Blake, currently director of IR and corporate communications for DuPont Photomasks, has been named VP of marketing. Blake joined DuPont Photomasks in 1996, where he held marketing and strategic management positions, reporting to Rygler, prior to being named director of IR and corporate communications in 1999.