“If you seek the chance to connect with new people while enjoying enriching activities, joining the Patent and Trademark Office Society (PTOS) is a worthy consideration. We extend a warm welcome, and the decision to become a part of our community is one you won't regret.”
Kang has a simple reason as to why he became a patent examiner with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) —“Word of mouth.”
Having earned his Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from the University of Maryland, College Park, Kang was introduced to the USPTO by a college friend who touted it as an excellent workplace. The prospect of witnessing cutting-edge inventions, staying abreast of innovative technologies, and enjoying flexible work hours instantly appealed to Kang, prompting him to set his sights on the USPTO.
Fast forward 16 years, and Kang is now a supervisory patent examiner, overseeing the activities of junior patent examiners specializing in Amusement Devices and Education and Demonstration.
His typical workday involves collaborative discussions with junior examiners, providing guidance in patent applicant interviews, reviewing cases, managing patent appeal conferences, and contributing to projects aligned with USPTO strategic objectives.
Kang also serves as a career coach at the USPTO, assisting employees in identifying and working toward their career goals. Additionally, he is a certified Clifton Strengths coach, leading employees to understand and optimize their inherent strengths.
Reflecting upon joining the USPTO in 2007, Kang recalls his early days as a patent examiner when he decided to join the Patent and Trademark Office Society (PTOS) in October of that year. He sought to connect with people across different departments within the USPTO, participate in cultural and social events, advocate for agency improvements, and gain access to the quarterly journal covering diverse patent-related topics published by PTOS. Kang said the strength of PTOS lies in the enthusiastic support of its members and the commitment of the board to make events educational and enjoyable.
In 2013, Kang assumed the role of an at-large representative within PTOS, taking on the responsibility of supporting the organization's mission within the USPTO. His decision to step into a leadership position was driven by a desire to contribute to the planning and execution of engaging events and activities for his colleagues.
Kang hopes his own "word of mouth" will encourage fellow employees to join PTOS.
“If you seek the chance to connect with new people while enjoying enriching activities, joining PTOS is a worthy consideration," Kang said. "We extend a warm welcome, and the decision to become a part of our community is one you won't regret."