From cutting-edge defense systems to reshaping global energy infrastructure, Russ Garcia’s career has been anything but ordinary. In this episode of Micro Journeys, host Daniel Marrujo sits down with Russ, now CEO of Menlo Micro, to trace the arc of a career that began in laser labs and radar systems and now finds him leading innovations in microelectromechanical switch technology. With a personal history steeped in engineering and mentorship, Russ brings a unique perspective to building technologies that have moved from Cold War defense systems to powering the AI age.

Diving deeper, Russ unpacks the origin and potential of Menlo Micro’s "Ideal Switch"—a breakthrough in hardware miniaturization and energy efficiency originally developed within GE’s R&D labs. He explains how this micro switch, born from a desire to reinvent the 150-year-old circuit breaker, now sits at the intersection of defense, energy, and AI. With applications ranging from nuclear submarines to distributed data center grids, the Ideal Switch is shaping the physical backbone of the technologies transforming our world.

By championing dual-use technology and rethinking conventional approaches to manufacturing, Russ is helping to reshape how we think about scale, sustainability, and supply chains. His story isn’t just about one innovation—it’s about building a resilient future through strategic thinking, collaboration, and a deep understanding of how old systems can give way to new possibilities.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode:

[03:24] The early laser lab job that sparked Russ’s passion for experimentation and hardware innovation

[08:21] From radar systems to GPS miniaturization—Russ’s pivotal moments in military-grade communications

[11:49] Why the "buy and build" strategy at Microsemi helped redefine the company and Russ’s role as an integrator

[22:03] The story behind Menlo Micro's Ideal Switch and how it reinvents the circuit breaker

[30:57] Menlo’s breakthrough with DIU and the future of energy-efficient defense technologies

[39:15] Menlo's expansion into AI, RF test and measurement, and why its innovations matter across industries

[50:05] How manufacturing simplicity and scalability position the Ideal Switch for global infrastructure impact

Let’s Connect:

• Daniel Marrujo on LinkedIn
• Russ Garcia
• TSS Website 

Learn more about TSS: https://tss.llc/micro-journeys-podcast/

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