In grade school, kids would ask me to “re-explain what the teacher said” in my terms, so it was on the playground I began to recraft messages for audiences to better understand concepts. Growing up in Silicon Valley with big technology companies all around, I wanted a part of it. Beginning work before graduation, I was inspired to “re-explain what the technology officer said” for audiences to better understand, especially when it came to addressing the complexities of rapidly evolving architectures and the business community.

I oversee all corporate, business, and communication growth strategies of the Advanced Photonics Coalition standards organization. Working with approximately 100 photonics companies, I work to retain and acquire relevant technology partners to form industry standards representing the entire photonics ecosystem, from design to manufacturing.

Resiliency is the greatest accomplishment in my career. Technology evolves quickly and you must keep the pace. Sometimes you invest in people, companies, or product lines that don’t come to fruition, not because of your effort, but because of situations outside of your control that you must overcome quickly — and with grace.

Being subject to stereotypes has been a challenge in my career and was overcome by being the absolute best version of myself in every possible aspect until there was nothing left for anyone to say. Results speak for themselves.

My advice for someone starting out in their career is “show up for others.” This is the most productive way to interact: tuning in to the needs of others, honoring their vulnerabilities, and being completely open to whatever those may be. It’s being there for that person despite what’s going on with you. In doing so, we become part of the greater picture, we co-create the company, and it becomes a magic show.

When people hear the word “impact” they think of the result a new technology will have, or the impression you or your company left on someone. While technology, company reputation, and your appearance are important, it’s the self and company image in your subconscious mind that really counts. This image that you hold — that brand projection, really — determines you or your company’s impact, its success or failure.

Thoughts become things. If you see it in your mind, you will hold it in your hand.

Melissa Kallos
Corporate Development and Strategy, Advanced Photonics Coalition
Born in United States / Resides in United States
Educational Background: BSc — dual in Public Relations and Business Administration, San Jose State University, United States