Connect the Dots: Stop Killing Your Yield—The Hidden Cost of Design Oversights
Global PCB Connections: A Field Engineer’s Perspective on the Top 10 Trends to Watch
Target Condition: Designing vs. Inventing
Connecting Wires—and Lives: E-Tron Systems Rewiring the Wire Harness Industry With Heart
December 30, 2024 | Brittany Martin, IPC CommunityEstimated reading time: 1 minute
E-Tron Systems, a Virginia-based contract manufacturer specializing in wire and cable harnesses, isn’t just about connecting wires; they connect lives. For nearly 40 years, E-Tron has been cultivating a legacy of inclusivity and championing a unique workforce where individuals with intellectual disabilities find employment and a sense of community and purpose.
The company has evolved from a small storefront operation to a total quality contract manufacturing company catering to diverse industries, including defense, medical, industrial refrigeration, and robotics. It now has locations in Lorton and Gore, Virginia.
At the helm of E-Tron is George Jacob, whose leadership style combines technical expertise with a deep sense of compassion. He believes in open communication, transparency, and treating all employees as stakeholders. George leads by example, working alongside his team and fostering a sense of shared ownership. His dedication and empathy set the tone for the entire organization.
“E-Tron's social mission is woven into the fabric of the company,” George says. “It is more than just producing high-quality wire harnesses; it is about creating opportunities and transforming lives. This mission motivates employees, fosters innovation, and guides every decision made at E-Tron.”
E-Tron was founded in 1986 with support from the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board, a public agency that provides services for those with developmental disabilities. What started as a small operation with only eight employees has blossomed into a thriving company with 40 team members, 15 of whom are “supported” employees. Supported employees are individuals with intellectual disabilities who require support and training to perform their daily work.
The E-Tron Approach: More Than Just a Job
E-Tron's commitment to its employees goes beyond simply providing jobs. The collaborative hiring process involves partnering with the Community Services Board (CSB) to identify candidates and assess their unique abilities. Each potential supported employee is given a tour of the facility and participates in tasks to evaluate their skills. Prior to hiring, E-Tron’s support staff and the CSB’s support coordinators hold meetings to understand all supported employees’ needs.
Continue reading this article in the Fall 2024 issue of IPC Community.
Share on:
Suggested Items
Global Citizenship: Training the Next Generation of Talent
03/19/2025 | Tom Yang -- Column: Global CitizenshipI believe that the most important assets of any company are the people. Business is all about the people whether it be our customers, suppliers or, most importantly, our own team members. All business is based on people-to-people relationships. Whether you own a three-person hot dog stand or a multi-billion-dollar corporation with thousands of employees, these transactions are based on how we work with one another.
Defense Speak Interpreted: It’s Time for a ‘Defense-Speak’ Update
03/18/2025 | Dennis Fritz -- Column: Defense Speak InterpretedI’m Denny Fritz, the author of 30 “Defense Speak Interpreted” columns from 2018 to 2022. My original concept for this monthly op-ed was to explain the unique acronym language used by the U.S. Defense Department: CMMC, DIUx, C4ISR, JEDI, etc. When I started consulting for NSWV Crane almost 20 years ago, I would find myself sitting in meetings, perplexed at what I heard. Half the conversations were using acronyms that were foreign to me.
SkyWater to Acquire Infineon’s Austin Fab and Establish Strategic Partnership To Expand U.S. Foundry Capacity for Foundational Chips
02/26/2025 | InfineonSkyWater Technology has entered into an agreement with Infineon Technologies AG for SkyWater to purchase Infineon’s 200 mm fab in Austin, Texas, (Fab 25) and a corresponding long-term supply agreement.
Kimball Electronics Mexico Volunteers Make a Difference at Julian Ernesto Zamora Elementary School
02/24/2025 | Kimball ElectronicsIn a heartwarming display of community spirit, eighteen Kimball Electronics Mexico (KEMX) employees recently dedicated their time to support the Julian Ernesto Zamora Elementary School. The volunteers divided into two groups to maximize their impact.
BAE Systems Significantly Expands Endicott Operations to Support Aircraft Electrification
02/20/2025 | BAE SystemsBAE Systems, a leading aerospace technology company, is expanding its operations in Endicott, New York, with a 150,000 square feet addition to its existing footprint. The dedicated facility will be equipped for high-voltage energy storage systems (ESS) development, manufacturing, and field support, advancing sustainable aviation solutions.