Insights with Manufacturing Leaders: AAPI Heritage Month

Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month is a time to honor the vibrant contributions, innovation, and leadership of AAPI individuals across all industries. In California’s diverse and ever-evolving manufacturing landscape, leaders of AAPI heritage are pioneering sustainable technologies, promoting inclusive workplaces, and shaping the future of how we design, build, and lead.

This month, we’re spotlighting three trailblazing AAPI voices in California manufacturing: Vincent Nguyen of Ryvid, Shireen Bojja of Voltek Ace, and Vamsi Kumar Kotla of ReMo Homes. Each brings a unique perspective to the industry—backed by passion, vision, and impact.

Vincent Nguyen | Co-Founder & CXO, Ryvid Inc.

Career Journey:
Vincent’s passion for manufacturing began early, inspired by traveling with his father on international business trips. Immersed in supply chains and global commerce from a young age, he pursued a career in supply chain logistics, starting in consumer goods and then moving into the fast-paced seafood industry. But, it was aerospace manufacturing where he developed his expertise in high-pressure environments and sustainable sourcing. These experiences fueled the founding of Ryvid, a company focused on affordable, eco-friendly electric vehicles. At Ryvid, Vincent channels his passion for sustainability and operational efficiency into building the future of green mobility.

On AAPI Representation:
“As an AAPI professional shaped by diverse cultural influences, I’ve seen firsthand how diversity drives innovation in manufacturing. AAPI professionals bring a blend of cultural insight, global expertise, and resilience that is essential in today’s interconnected industry. With Asia’s economies rapidly growing and offering vast opportunities, understanding the region’s business nuances—where much of our supply chain operates—can unlock partnerships and streamline operations. By amplifying AAPI representation, especially in leadership, we create dynamic, innovative companies poised to tackle tomorrow’s challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities.”

DEI Efforts at Ryvid:
Ryvid has an area of focus on community engagement efforts to make the industry more inclusive. The company has helped set up programs to uplift underrepresented folks, including AAPI team members, guiding them toward roles in EV and Battery Supply Chain environments. One thing the company is proud of is pushing for inclusive hiring, ensuring they bringing diverse talent to the teams, and building a foundation where everyone feels valued and can thrive.

On the meaning of AAPI Heritage Month to him:
“AAPI Heritage Month is a time to reflect on my unique identity and our collective strength as an AAPI community, lifting each other up to celebrate our contributions. It’s an opportunity to honor my family’s journey, our cultural heritage, and the often-overlooked impact of AAPI professionals. Personally, I celebrate by connecting and supporting AAPI-owned businesses and events in my community.”

Proudest Moment:
Vincent’s proudest moment is leading Ryvid to secure a key clean energy partnership in California that not only advanced their mission, but also fostered industry collaboration and workforce growth—earning him recognition from peers seeking his guidance.

Shireen Bojja | President & Owner, Voltek Ace

Career Journey:
With a master’s in Electrical Engineering from CSU Fresno and a recent master’s in Engineering Management, Shireen started her career designing navigation systems at Trimble Navigation. Her introduction to manufacturing came through a focus on Design for Manufacturability, which sparked her interest in bridging the gap between design and production. She’s now at the forefront of innovation in public safety power electronics, launching products like the TrafficGuard TBTC and GreenPower GPRC—multi-data point apps accelerating smart transportation.

On AAPI Representation:
“The AAPI community significantly contributes to the growth of manufacturing. Our own Golden State is a classic example, a melting pot of diversity and talent. Even back in 2011, when I first started, the design and manufacturing groups were extremely diverse. Local manufacturing has grown and improved significantly through the years and I am certain that this growth is exponential and sustainable.”

DEI Approach at Voltek Ace:
Voltek Ace works with contractors and contract manufacturers who are best suited for the job. The selection process is free of biases. The company’s selection is made based on a successful portfolio of current and previous projects.

On the meaning of AAPI Heritage Month to her:
“AAPI Heritage month is more than just a celebration, it’s an opportunity for reflection.”

Proudest Moment:
Shireen’s proudest moments are her significant contributions to the traffic and ITS sectors. For her impact in electrical engineering and entrepreneurship, she was honored with the 2025 Global Recognition Award and a 2025 Stevie Award.

Vamsi Kumar Kotla | Founder, ReMo Homes

Career Journey:
Vamsi’s roots in construction, combined with a background in computer science and AI, led him to question the stagnant nature of traditional construction. During the pandemic, he turned to prefab housing as a solution to housing shortages and climate change. This sparked the founding of ReMo Homes, a modular housing manufacturer bridging construction and high-productivity manufacturing principles.

On AAPI Representation:
“AAPI communities place a strong cultural emphasis on STEM education, and they have strong connections to many Asian countries and have built world-renowned manufacturing ecosystems. That global perspective and technical excellence are a huge asset to the U.S. manufacturing sector, especially here in California. By increasing AAPI representation, we’re not only bringing in talent, but also cross-cultural insight, operational discipline, and a forward-thinking mindset that helps move the industry forward.”

DEI at ReMo Homes:
Women make up less than 2% of construction trades, but ReMo is working to change that. The company aims to bring working parents, especially women, into modular manufacturing through education and awareness. Its goal is to provide a safe space for everyone to build their careers and achieve their personal goals. ReMo is proud to offer a fixed location and schedule, which is not always typical in traditional construction. The company is also planning to provide childcare and adult care services at their facilities, helping to tap into a workforce often burdened by caregiving responsibilities.

On the meaning of AAPI Heritage Month to him:
“AAPI Heritage Month is about recognition and remembrance. It honors the generations of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who contributed to building this country—often without credit, and sometimes in the face of active exclusion. From the Chinese laborers who helped build California’s railways, to the Japanese Americans who endured internment, to legal battles like Bhagat Singh Thind’s citizenship case—it’s a reminder of both the resilience and the contributions of our community.

Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month is a small but meaningful step in acknowledging that legacy, and creating a sense of belonging for future generations.”

Proudest Moment:
One of Vamsi’s proudest moments was when ReMo Homes received a major grant from the California Energy Commission and soon after exhibited at HUD’s Innovative Housing Showcase in Washington, D.C.—a national recognition of their bold vision for sustainable housing. The ReMo team built a modular home in just 10 days, transported it from Los Angeles to D.C., and showcased it alongside the nation’s most innovative housing solutions. As one of the few chosen to represent the future of housing on a national stage—and seeing both our state and country stand behind us— it was an unforgettable validation of ReMo’s mission.

The voices of Vincent Nguyen, Shireen Bojja, and Vamsi Kumar Kotla reflect the spirit of AAPI Heritage Month—resilience, innovation, and forward momentum. As California continues to lead in manufacturing, diversity will remain at the forefront—driving smarter, more inclusive, and future-ready industries for all.