By Phil LoPiccolo, Editor in Chief

In emerging markets, essential ingredients for success, besides technological expertise and innovation, are patience and long-term vision. That’s one of the lessons John Goodman, SVP and chief technology and innovation officer at Entegris, stressed during a discussion at the recent SEMI New England Breakfast Forum about his company’s decision to enter the alternative energy market.

Five years ago, when studying emerging markets to determine where it could best participate, Entegris decided to direct some focus toward alternative energy, in particular hydrogen fuel cell technology, not only because it offered the potential to generate new revenue streams, but also because it provided an opportunity for the company to leave a legacy of fostering energy independence and environmental responsibility. Unfortunately, the journey is taking longer than expected. “The definition of an emerging market is one that’s not going to grow as fast as you thought it would, and won’t be profitable for some time,” Goodman quipped. …