ITRI's Leadership Change Marks New Era for Taiwan's Industrial Innovation and Collaboration

Leadership Changes at ITRI Signal a New Era for Taiwan’s Industrial Innovation

The Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) in Taiwan ushers in a new chapter with the appointment of Dr. Pei-Zen Chang as president, effective November 2, 2025. In his inaugural address, Dr. Chang underscores the pivotal role of innovation in driving Taiwan's industrial growth and reaffirms ITRI's commitment to serving as a reliable hub for government strategic studies and a technological partner for various industries. With a focus on propelling Taiwan's global leadership in innovation, Dr. Chang outlines three key priorities that are set to shape the institute's future direction.

Dr. Chang emphasizes the empowerment of talent through interdisciplinary collaborations. By fostering partnerships among different institutions, ITRI aims to accelerate the development of advanced technologies that can address both high-tech and traditional industrial sectors. This strategy not only aims to enhance the skill sets of the workforce but also promotes a culture of innovation that is essential for maintaining Taiwan's competitive edge in the global market. The emphasis on collaboration highlights ITRI's intent to create a synergistic environment where ideas can flourish and translate into practical applications.

In addition to talent development, Dr. Chang highlights the urgency of industrial transformation. The ongoing shift from labor-intensive manufacturing to innovation-driven processes is crucial for Taiwan's economic sustainability. ITRI's newly launched Technology Strategy and Roadmap 2035 is designed to align research and development efforts with market needs and global trends. This roadmap serves as a guide for the institute to navigate the complexities of technological advancements, ensuring that Taiwan not only keeps pace but leads in innovation. Lastly, Dr. Chang calls for strengthening international commitments, positioning ITRI as a conduit for Taiwan to connect with global partners and enhance its influence in the technological landscape.

In the context of its rich history, ITRI has been instrumental since its establishment in 1973 in transforming Taiwan's industrial framework from a labor-intensive model to one driven by innovation and technology. Dr. Chang's leadership marks a strategic pivot towards harnessing emerging technologies and collaborative efforts that will keep Taiwan at the forefront of industrial development.

As Dr. Chang steps into his new role, he brings a wealth of experience in technology policy and R&D management, having held significant positions that align with ITRI's mission. With a Ph.D. in Theoretical and Applied Mechanics from Cornell University and a background in civil engineering from National Taiwan University, he is well-equipped to lead ITRI into its next phase of growth and innovation. This leadership change reflects a broader trend within the industry where collaboration and technological advancement are becoming increasingly vital for sustaining competitive advantages in a rapidly evolving global market.