When Iyke Eme joined the Phenomenex team more than three decades ago, it was operating as a small production company in a Palos Verdes neighborhood. After the company moved to Torrance, its growth took off, calling for the addition of a research and development team and a manufacturing department. Iyke has had the opportunity to support both production and manufacturing through the process of starting silica from scratch and following through to the bonding stage.
Ever since high school, Iyke took a liking to his science courses, which paved the way for his undergraduate studies in microbiology and health science. Right out of college, he began working at a lab in a hospital where he learned that he needed a more involved role. “I’m more of a hands-on person, so I started looking for a better-suited opportunity,” explained Iyke. “I responded to an ad in the local newspaper in search of a lab technician and was called in to meet the company’s CEO. After the interview, the CEO asked me when I could start, and I told him I could start right then and there. That was the beginning of my journey with Phenomenex, and the rest is history.”
While there are many different reasons that Iyke loves working at Phenomenex, he feels most passionate about the positive impact that the company has on humanity. “Our scientists are working inside the lab to create a better world outside of the lab. It is motivating to wake up in the morning knowing that the work you do that day is meaningful to humanity.
Phenomenex’s commitment to world-class products and service also plays a major role in the pride that Iyke feels for his role and the company at large. “My colleagues and I are always sharing wins with each other,” shared Iyke. “Everything from product quality to timely delivery is crucial and the team is very committed to providing high-quality products as well as exceptional services.”