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Patricia Chang always wanted to be a concert pianist, but as she worked toward that goal she realized that it was not meant to be. While disappointing, that realization caused her to reexamine her career path.
Chang went in a completely different direction and decided on a career in engineering. What she never realized was that another dream would soon come into focus.
Pianist-Turned-Patent Winner
A Verizon Patent Award winner, Patricia describes her current role at Verizon as “her dream job”. She attributes that distinction to the company’s energetic environment where she learns new things every day.
According to Chang, the Verizon Patent Award Program simplifies the process of submitting patents and makes it easier for engineers and innovators to collaborate.
Chang is currently the associate director of data planning for Verizon Wireless’ West area and is responsible for the area’s 4G LTE core network. As an innovator, her goal is to use the network in ways that enhance the lives of parents and children.
“Everybody can be an innovator if you open up your mind. Even small ideas can make a big difference,” says Chang.
The Creative Process
Chang has filed 22 Patents and has another 44 pending. One of Chang’s most important patents is for a method of securing Verizon Wireless’ subscriber database in case of a major problem, enabling the company to continue to provide superior network coverage to affected subscribers.
“Coming up with patents that help our company and our customers is like music to my ears.” Chang says.
While engineering and music may seem like completely different interests, Chang says her interest in the piano continues to help her in her current career.
“Playing the piano really helps me relax, and brings up my creative mode,” she says.
When trying to figure out a solution to a problem, she often turns to her piano as a creative outlet. Tapping the keys on her piano gets her creative juices flowing, and she compares the process to that of creating patents.
The process often starts with an idea and a melody in her head. She then puts the idea down on paper in hopes of making something meaningful and beautiful.
This article was contributed by Tamika Rivera, who is on the communications team.
