Sherry Hess

Sherry Hess is a seasoned technology leader with over two decades of experience driving growth and innovation in the Electronic Design Automation (EDA) industry. As the Senior Program Management Group Director at Cadence, she drives critical global initiatives, using her expertise to push forward next-generation products and market expansion.

Career Highlights

• Cadence Design Systems: In her previous role as Senior Product Management Group Director, Sherry developed go-to-market strategies that significantly boosted the company’s market presence. Under her leadership, the multiphysics system analysis product line saw substantial growth.
• AWR Corporation: Sherry joined AWR in 2007 as Vice President of Marketing. She crafted the company’s brand positioning and market strategy in the high-frequency EDA space, leading to AWR’s acquisition by National Instruments in 2011 and later by Cadence in 2019.
• CebaTech, Inc.: As Vice President of Business Development, Sherry launched a stealth-mode EDA/IP startup, building the commercial infrastructure and positioning the company for growth.
• Ansoft Corporation (now Synopsys): Sherry spent over 15 years at Ansoft, starting as a Sales and Support Engineer and rising to Vice President of Marketing. She played a key role in the company’s global expansion and IPO in 1996.
• Intel Corporation: Sherry began her career at Intel, gaining valuable experience in semiconductor design and manufacturing.

Educational Background

Sherry holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) and a Master of Science in Industrial Administration (MSIA) from Carnegie Mellon University. She was one of only eight women in her engineering class, showcasing her pioneering spirit in STEM fields. 

Volunteering and Advocacy

Beyond her corporate achievements, Sherry is dedicated to advancing women in technology. She holds leadership roles within IEEE MTT-S and specifically within Women in Microwaves (WIM) and Women in Engineering (WIE) organizations. She is also a sought-after thought leader, regularly contributing to industry publications and serving on panels focused on women’s advancement in business and technology.

Sherry Hess is recognized as one of California’s most influential technology leaders, driving innovation and paving the way for future generations of women in STEM.