Creating Next-Gen Microcontroller Developer Tools and Equipping the People Who Use Them

Creating Next-Gen Microcontroller Developer Tools and Equipping the People Who Use Them

Author: All About Circuits April 22, 2025 Duration: 49:40

In this interview, our Moore's Lobby host, Daniel Bogdanoff, chats with Rodger Richey, Vice President of Development Tools and Academic Programs at Microchip Technology. Rodger shares how his passion for engineering began with childhood curiosity, dismantling and repairing devices like a microwave. Those early hands-on experiences laid the foundation for his electrical engineering career, which started with designing underwater electronics for the U.S. Navy.

Rodger discusses the evolution of development tools and the growing complexity of embedded systems over his 30-year tenure at Microchip. He emphasizes the importance of creating accessible and user-friendly tools, such as IDEs and development boards, to help developers tackle increasingly sophisticated projects. The integration of AI into development workflows is a major milestone, enabling enhanced productivity and better debugging.

Rodger also highlights his involvement in academia, spearheading initiatives like virtual internships and hands-on learning programs to better prepare students for industry roles. By providing real-world tools and fostering collaboration, these programs aim to bridge the gap between theoretical education and practical application.

Rodger attributes his longevity at Microchip to its strong values, collaborative culture, and dedication to innovation, which have remained consistent even as the company has grown significantly.


In the world of electronics, the real story is often found in the people who design, innovate, and push the boundaries of what's possible. Moore's Lobby: Where engineers talk all about circuits is a monthly podcast that goes beyond datasheets and schematics to explore the human element driving technological progress. Host Daniel Bogdanoff sits down with a diverse range of guests-from hands-on engineers and visionary technologists to the executives steering major organizations-for conversations that are as much about personal journey as technical achievement. Each episode delves into the practical engineering and the broader industry trends shaping our future, but always through the lens of the individual's experience. You'll hear firsthand accounts of breakthrough moments, the challenges of bringing complex ideas to life, and the philosophies that guide leaders in this demanding field. This podcast from All About Circuits connects a global community of professionals who share a deep curiosity for how things work and who makes them work. It’s a space for nuanced discussion that aims to inform, inspire, and provide genuine insight into the circuit-driven world we inhabit. The dialogue here is for those who appreciate the substance behind the innovation, offering a blend of technical depth and narrative that you can naturally integrate into your own perspective.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Moore's Lobby: Where engineers talk all about circuits
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