Intel CEO’s Tragic Mistake That Nearly Got Him Fired 25 Years Ago

Before he was the world’s top chipmaker CEO, Brian Krzanich was an average engineer at Intel. That time, Intel was just starting to strategize on how it would be the top chip maker in the world. Krzanich’s job then was simple, he just needs to transfer the chip manufacturing process from one facility to another.

CNBC reported the unexpected error took place during those times. The untold mistake from 25 years ago is that Krzanich “wiped out the output of an entire factory for a week.” Krzanich then stated on his interview with Fortt Knox that he didn’t quite know what happened and that the production just halted. This accident didn’t fire him, but instead, he was given by his boss two weeks to solve the issue.

"It went all the way up to the CEO. And my boss at one point walked into my office and said, 'You have about two more weeks to figure out this issue, and if you don't, I've got to let you go,'" Krzanich stated.

With Krzanich’s mistake, the system "Copy Exactly" was developed. Krzanich then became eager to solve the issue that he mentioned. He also said that he and his friend would solve the issue even if it would take their time for sleep. Hence, they found the solution in just a week. Krzanich was then made executive who handled Intel’s factories which paved his way on becoming Intel’s future CEO.

Then four years ago, while Intel was scouting for its next CEO, Krzanich took the initiative and asked help from his friend and presented to the board. Value Walk noted that this adaptability, straightforward approach and willingness to face obstacles is what sets him apart to be the right candidate as Intel’s CEO.

These capabilities then made Kzanich lead Intel to great heights. Later on, he was named CEO and his friend as the President.

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