KLA (NASDAQ:KLAC) is a leading supplier of process control and yield management solutions for the semiconductor and related nanoelectronics industries. Headquartered in Milpitas, California, the company designs, manufactures and supports advanced inspection, metrology and data analytics systems that help chipmakers optimize production performance, improve yields and reduce defects across the entire semiconductor manufacturing cycle.
The company’s product portfolio includes wafer inspection tools, reticle and photomask inspection systems, advanced packaging inspection platforms, metrology instruments and software solutions for process control, data analysis and yield management. KLA’s offerings address critical stages such as front-end wafer fabrication, back-end packaging, memory and logic device production, as well as emerging applications in LEDs, power electronics and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS).
Founded in 1975 by Kenneth Levy and Robert Anderson, KLA (formerly KLA-Tencor) has grown through a combination of internal innovation and strategic acquisitions. In 1997, it merged with Tencor Instruments to broaden its metrology and inspection capabilities, and has since expanded its global footprint through acquisitions such as Orbotech and Nanometrics. The company operates engineering, sales and support centers across North America, Europe, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, China and other key semiconductor hubs.
Under the leadership of President and Chief Executive Officer Rick Wallace, KLA continues to invest in R&D and customer support to address the evolving challenges of advanced semiconductor manufacturing. The company’s executive team and board of directors bring extensive experience in technology development, manufacturing leadership and global business strategy to guide its growth in the highly competitive semiconductor equipment market.
