Akshay Harlalka Recognized for Excellence in Precision Machine Design and Advanced Manufacturing
From India to Silicon Valley, Mr. Harlalka’s journey exemplifies the impact of high-skilled immigrants on America’s continued leadership in advanced technology.
SAN JOSE, CA, June 09, 2025 /24-7PressRelease/ — Akshay D. Harlalka has been honored with inclusion in Marquis Who’s Who, a distinction reserved for individuals recognized for exceptional professional achievements, influence, and lasting contributions to their field.
Born in Jagdishpur, a rural town in India, Mr. Harlalka graduated top of his class in Mechanical Engineering at Vellore Institute of Technology, earning the University Gold Medal. After spending a year doing research at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, he went on to earn a master’s degree from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) supported by scholarships from MIT and the KC Mahindra Education Trust. At MIT, he specialized in precision machine design and conducted research under Professor Alexander Slocum in the Precision Engineering Research Group.
Mr. Harlalka began his career at ASML, where he contributed to the development of high-throughput lithography systems for the semiconductor industry. He co-invented in-situ cleaning systems—patented in the U.S. and Taiwan—that significantly reduced fab equipment downtime, saving millions in operational costs. He also led the development of reticle slip limiter technology that enabled lithography machines to achieve industry-leading throughput. He later joined the CTO Office at Applied Materials, where he led the development of precision lithium delivery systems for next-generation battery electrode manufacturing.
Currently, Mr. Harlalka is a Staff Mechanical Engineer at Atomic Machines Inc., where he leads the development of 3D inspection systems for MEMS applications. Over his career, he has received several accolades including MIT’s Great Dome Award—the highest honor from the MIT Alumni Association. His peer-reviewed research is widely cited, reflecting its significance in the field.
He credits his success to technical curiosity and a passion for solving meaningful problems. Outside of work, he leads public service initiatives like LifeStream—India’s first geocoded blood availability map—and mentors aspiring engineers through the MIT Alumni Advisors Hub. His website blog reflects his enthusiasm for mechanical engineering through practical insights and real-world problem-solving.
About Marquis Who’s Who®
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