Camillo Cheng (B.S. ‘76) is recognized for his entrepreneurial spirit in the world of Asian food manufacturing.

James Carothers, ChemE department interim chair, presents Camillo Cheng with his award medallion.

Camillo Cheng grew up in Malaysia, and came to the United States in the 1970s to attend college. His decision to pursue a degree in chemical engineering stemmed from his general interest in science and chemistry.

Cheng graduated with a B.S. in Chemical Engineering in 1976. He then continued his education at UW and earned a M.B.A. in 1978. For the first few years of his career, Cheng worked in chemical sales with companies that ranged in size from small, privately owned firms to multinational corporations. With a particular interest in business leadership, Cheng then took an opportunity to help run a local chemical company. Over the next several years he rose from president to CEO, ultimately becoming minority partner before helping to sell the company in 1998.

At that point Cheng set his sights in a new direction and became the owner of Golden Pheasant Foods, a family-owned Asian food manufacturer in Seattle. Cheng and his wife ran and successfully grew the business together before selling it in 2012.

In 2019, still not quite ready to fully retire, he partnered with his son Isaac and together they purchased Tsue Chong Company, a long-standing Asian food manufacturer that has been in operation for over 100 years. Cheng still helps to run the company today.

Outside of work, Camillo has demonstrated a commitment to giving back, and has been a generous alumni volunteer with UW ChemE, having served as an informal mentor to students.

“Over the years I have learned that business really is my hobby,” said Cheng, “I enjoy being an entrepreneur and taking risks, and making sure things all work out. I also really enjoy the people part of it, and being able to see others grow in their own success.”