In the ever-evolving world of technology, where innovation drives progress, Preeti Kotha has carved a niche for herself as a pioneering RF Systems Test Engineer at Apple. Her journey from Hyderabad, India, to California, USA, is a testament to perseverance, passion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in the field of radio frequency (RF) engineering.
Preeti Kotha: Early Life and Educational Journey
Born and raised in Hyderabad, Preeti Kotha grew up in a middle-class household where values like hard work, education, and resilience were deeply ingrained. With a natural affinity for mathematics and analytical thinking, she gravitated toward engineering.
Preeti Kotha pursued a degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE) from Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Technology, Hyderabad, before setting her sights on the United States. She moved to California to earn her Master of Science (MS) in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from San Jose State University, a crucial step that laid the foundation for her future in RF technology.
However, the timing of her graduation in 2008 coincided with a global recession, making job opportunities scarce, especially in electrical engineering. But adversity only fueled her determination. She discovered her passion for radio frequency (RF) engineering and took her first step into the field by joining AKON, an electronics manufacturing company that supplied RF products to defense organizations, including those in India.
Building Expertise in RF Engineering
Preeti Kotha embraced the complexities of RF and microwave measurements, semiconductor testing, debugging, and millimeter-wave technologies. She honed her skills in:
- Testing RF and microwave components for radar and wireless applications.
- Conducting advanced RF measurements and debugging semiconductor devices.
- Working with millimeter-wave products, crucial for high-frequency communication.
Her commitment to mastering these technical aspects saw her thrive at AKON for a decade before moving to Qorvo, where she ascended to the role of Lead RF Test Development Engineer. Her expertise and leadership skills flourished, paving the way for her next big career milestone.
Joining Apple – A Career Defining Moment
In 2023, Preeti Kotha took another leap forward by joining Apple’s RF Systems team, where she now works on Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) technology. At Apple, she collaborates with a diverse group of engineers from around the world, enhancing global positioning technologies that impact millions of users.
Despite her success, she recognizes the gender gap in the hardware technology sector. “I wish there were more women in hardware tech across the world,” she notes, highlighting the need for diversity and representation in engineering.
Balancing Work, Family, and Passion
Beyond her professional achievements, Preeti Kotha is a dedicated mother of two. She effortlessly balances her demanding career with family life. Her daily routine includes dropping her elder child to school, working full-time, and ensuring quality family time in the evenings.
“For working moms, the list of things to do never ends,” she says with a laugh. “But planning and prioritizing help. I make sure my evenings and weekends are dedicated to my family and self-care.”
Outside of work, Preeti is a passionate dancer, a hobby that keeps her grounded. She also enjoys outdoor adventures, hiking, long walks, and beach outings. Committed to lifelong learning, she stays updated with the latest trends in RF engineering, learning programming languages, and pursuing certification courses.
Staying Connected to Her Indian Roots
Despite having made California her home, Preeti holds India close to her heart. She frequently visits Hyderabad and ensures that her children experience the joys of Indian culture—be it playing street cricket, enjoying pani puri, or forming close-knit bonds with neighbors.
She emphasizes, “I feel fortunate to have experienced the best of both worlds. Being Indian is more than a nationality—it’s a mindset. We are hardworking, ambitious, and deeply connected to our cultural roots. The Indian community here is growing, and I’m happy that my children can embrace our traditions even in the US.”
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