Wai Yan Sandy Chau was born in Shanghai, elementary school in Hong Kong, middle school in Vietnam, high school in Hong Kong and college in USA. Career started in Vietnam from 1972 to mid 1975.Worked with Asian Inc San Francisco on business empowerment for minority enterprises (1975 -1977). Founded Universal Semiconductor in 1978.
 
Lived in Taiwan (1986 to 1989) and Hong Kong (1990 to 2000). Back to USA since 2001. Lived in Beijing half time 2009 to 2014. Active with Acorn group in high tech investments. In 1979 Founded AAMA (Asian American Multi Technology). Key participant of CIE (Chinese Institute of Engineers from 1979 to 1985) Previous board member of Vision New America. President of Shin Shin Education Foundation (2004 to 2009). Founder of Civic Leadership USA (CLUSA).