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I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week

In our industry, this week’s must-read features include CEE’s Tom Yang and his perspective on having a global business amidst tariff talk and other challenges. Joe Fjelstadt talks to the “Flexperts,” Nick Koop of TTM and Mark Finstead of Flexible Circuit Technologies. Nolan Johnson interviews the McGucken Group about the importance of empathic leadership in BANI times. NCAB’s Ryan Miller writes about reliability and compliance for building PCBs for medical applications, and surprise, more news from Siemens.

IPC Excellence in Education Award: Zenaida Valianu

Zenaida Valianu is the training manager at IPC who brings more than 25 years of expertise in standards and training development to her role. She has revolutionized IPC certification training programs by significantly enhancing their content with comprehensive curricula and engaging materials. She has also been instrumental in developing essential workforce training courses and contributing to various other initiatives.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Improving the Electronics Industry With Advanced Packaging

Devan Iyer, the Chief Strategist for Advanced Packaging at IPC, shares insights from his recent presentation at the EMS Leadership Summit. The discussion covers the importance of understanding market segments in IoT, power electronics, and high-performance computing. EMS companies are encouraged to specialize, invest wisely, and collaborate to meet customer needs.

Empathetic Leadership for Incomprehensible Times

Audrey McGuckin and Catherine Sherman of the McGuckin Group delivered a keynote at the EMS Leadership Summit at IPC APEX EXPO 2025, emphasizing psychological safety and people-centric leadership in the EMS industry. Through personal stories, they fostered an open environment, where attendees learned about empathetic management practices. They introduced the popular BANI (Brittle, Anxious, Non-linear, Incomprehensible) model, underscoring the need for transparency and empathy in today’s complex business landscape. 

Trust in the Process: Zollner Elektronik Heavily Investing in a Future Filled With Electronics

Family goals and values—born by one man tinkering around in his garage in Bavaria near the Czech border—are the cornerstones of IPC member Zollner Elektronik AG, one of the 15 largest EMS companies in the world, and the largest in Germany. The company places heavy priority on its employees, products, and partnerships.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: The Role of AI in Advanced Packaging

In a follow-up to his keynote, Dr. Ahmad Bahai, discusses the critical intersection of advanced packaging, computing, and AI in semiconductor innovation with Nolan Johnson and Devan Iyer. He emphasizes the need for new approaches to handle the data economy and highlights AI's role in optimizing electronics manufacturing. The conversation covers challenges in power and thermal management, the impact of AI on EDA tools, and bio-inspired innovations. Predictions about future trends point towards increased efficiency in design and manufacturing.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Winner of the IPC Best Student Poster Award

Sebastian Carrillo, winner of the Best Student Technical Poster Award, shares insights on his research in nanotechnology and plasmonics. His work on a metal insulator nano array focuses on light-matter interactions at the nanoscale. With advancements in manufacturing, applications include sensing technologies and photovoltaic systems. Sebastian discusses his project involving simulations and optical experiments. His career goals are in research, and he encourages students to seize academic opportunities.

A Day in the Life of an Apprentice at Arc-Tronics

We're recognizing National Apprenticeship Week with this feature on Arc-Tronics, which launched its first-ever apprenticeship program in 2024 to emphasize the importance of workforce development and reflect its deep commitment to nurturing future talent. This program not only provides hands-on experience to apprentices but also ensures the company’s continued leadership in the industry.

Rising Star Award: Paavo Niskala, TactoTek

Paavo Niskala joined the IPC community in 2022 as part of the inaugural steering group for in-mold electronics. He led the development of standard IPC-8401, Guidelines for In-Mold Electronics, chairing the project from its inception to its publication in 2024. Currently, Paavo serves as vice chair of the D-84A Plastronics Accelerated Reliability Testing Task Group, contributing his expertise to advancing reliability standards in the field.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: TRI Innovation—Transforming Semiconductor Inspection with AI Technology

Nolan Johnson talks with David Chiu, USA Sales Manager for TRI Innovation. TRI uses advanced technology to tackle challenges in inspecting tiny components. Their AI programming reduces coding time by 75%, enhancing efficiency in inspections. Collaborating with Nvidia, TRI integrates GPU technology to improve product development and encourages customers to share data for better AI performance.

I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week

I’m highlighting a discussion on the positive potential coming from the recent changes in global trade policy—from IPC’s Government Relations team, and from TTM CEO Tom Edman. In the realm of designers and purchasers realm, there’s news from Screaming Circuits and ASC/Sunstone Circuits to share. Finally, additive manufacturing and the release of CFX 2.0 highlight just some of the news coming to the shop floor as well.

SMTA Bridging the Skills Gap in Arizona

One area where SMTA really excels is through its local chapters. On April 16, 2025, I-Connect007's Marcy LaRont attended the Workforce Breakfast during the SMTA Arizona Expo & Tech Forum in Mesa, which featured more than 50 electronics professionals from the local area, including defense OEMs, and others who were attending for the first time. Blackfox and Hyrel Technologies sponsored the event. The keynote presentation featured Sean Denny, a professor at Estrella Mountain Community College, who emphasized a clear need for skilled hand soldering technicians.

Recognizing the IPC Committee Volunteer Awards in 2025

In 2023, IPC created two new awards to honor standards development committee volunteers: The Hillman-Lambert Award for Volunteer of the Year and the Kessler-Goldman Award for Committee Leader of the Year. The awards were named after Hall of Fame members whose service to standards development is well-known and who have demonstrated the skills and principles that the awardees should also have.

IPC Rising Star Award: Young-Ho Hwang, Guru E&E

Since 2022, IPC has made significant progress for its Korean members. Young-Ho Hwang has been instrumental in driving these developments. As a core advisory committee member and chair of the 610 RTG, he has played a key role in guiding IPC Korea’s strategic direction, championed the development and adoption of IPC standards across industries, and fostered strong collaborations with stakeholders.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: IPC's Growth and Future in India's Manufacturing Sector

Gaurab Majumdar, VP for IPC in SE Asia and India, highlights IPC's impressive growth in India, with certification numbers rising significantly. The Indian manufacturing sector is projected to reach a $300 billion market, alongside a $10 billion investment in semiconductors. IPC is addressing industry demands through standards development and a new workforce project aimed at training students for job placements.

IPC Rising Star Award: Feng Xue, IBM

Feng Xue is a senior technical staff member in supply chain engineering at IBM. He has 21 years of experience in semiconductor technology and supply chain operations and leads initiatives on internal quality management systems, supplier quality programs, business analytics, app modernization and cloud-native apps for quality processes, IoT solution deployment, and Industrial 4.0 transformation, engineering skill development, and technical leadership development.

The Future of Advanced Packaging Inspection Is X-ray

Driven by smartphones, high-performance computers, and artificial intelligence, the global demand for high-end computing power is constantly rising. The industry is also facing demands for miniaturization, which creates the need for ever-smaller defect recognition. The semiconductor industry has been identifying and solving these challenges for decades using various optical inspection and SEM tools.

I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week

It’s been a busy week in our industry. Never a dull moment! If you’ve been paying attention to our tariff tumult with China and its effect on the stock market, especially if your company does a lot of business with China, you might be tempted to call in a Xanax refill about now. But hang tight. This is still early in the first quarter. This brouhaha serves to underscore our need to manufacture critical laminates and components in the U.S. In this week’s must-reads, we have a potpourri of articles covering tariffs, the next generation of HDI, the three-year anniversary of IPC Mexico, a novel green technology, and emerging design trends.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Aster—Enhancing Design for Effective Testing Strategies

Will Webb, technical director at Aster, stresses the importance of testability in design, emphasizing early engagement to identify testing issues. This discussion covers the integration of testing with Industry 4.0, the need for good test coverage, and adherence to industry standards. Innovations like boundary scan testing and new tools for cluster testing are introduced, highlighting advancements in optimizing testing workflows and collaboration with other tools.

Can the Electronics Industry Balance Tariffs With Investment?

To better understand the U.S. administration’s recent actions on global trade policies, Barry Matties and Nolan Johnson met with Richard Cappetto, IPC’s senior director of North American government relations, who highlighted both the challenges and opportunities available to U.S. companies in the recent trade activity. This could include increased domestic manufacturing and supply chain diversification.

IPC President's Award: Barry Matties

The IPC President’s Award is given to IPC members who have exhibited ongoing leadership in IPC and have made significant contributions of their time and talent to the association and the electronic interconnect industry. Individuals can receive this award only once. Barry Matties has been a leading global force in publishing content about the electronics industry for nearly 40 years. He began his publishing career as a co-founder of CircuiTree Magazine in 1987, which became the leading printed trade journal serving the PCB industry.

IPC President’s Award: Xaver Feiner

Throughout his career, Xaver Feiner, vice president of marketing and sales at Zollner Elektronik, has developed extensive expertise in account management and new business development with a strong focus on the semiconductor industry, aerospace, and industrial electronics. Xaver has cultivated a profound understanding of global markets and remains deeply engaged with the challenges and opportunities presented by digital transformation. Since 2020, he has been an active member of the IPC Europe Advocacy Group, where he is dedicated to advancing the position of the electronics industry and the EMS sector across Europe.

IPC APEX EXPO 2025 Learning Lounge: Education on the Show Floor

The conference portion of IPC APEX EXPO has been providing educational opportunities for attendees since the first show. But recently, show managers decided to expand education onto the show floor.

IPC APEX EXPO 2025 Review: The New Normal Looks Like the Old Normal

At IPC APEX EXPO, my days are filled with either talking or listening from sunup to sundown. I get to answer questions of some of the brightest minds in the business, while also listening and synthesizing what they’re sharing with me about the current and future state of the industry. Here are five observations based on the conversations.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Transition Automation Focusing on Security Coatings and Squeegee Technology

Mark Curtin, President of Transition Automation, gives an update on recent innovations at his company. He highlights a record sales month and their new focus on security coatings to fight counterfeiting. Mark explains the engineering behind their durable squeegees, the importance of maintenance, and the value of considering overall costs over just price.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: A Close Look at Inspection Technologies in the EMS Industry with Viscom

Juan Briceno, VP Viscom Americas, sits down with Kelly Dack for this interview. Viscom is a leader in inspection technologies for the EMS industry covering various inspection equipment like AOI and X-ray systems. Juan highlights Viscom's role in quality assurance. The discussion includes the impact of artificial intelligence on manufacturing processes and the benefits of 3D inspection techniques for defect detection. The importance of quality control and problem identification through AI is also emphasized.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Technological Advancements – IPC's Vision for 2025

Nolan Johnson introduces Matt Kelly, the CTO and VP Standards & Technology at IPC, who shares insights on recent organizational changes. He highlights the importance of proactive standards development to match the rapid pace of technology, predicting a tenfold acceleration in advancements over the next five years. IPC's core initiatives for 2025 focus on design, advanced electronics packaging, and digital manufacturing, aiming to create new guidelines and standards that meet industry demands.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Intraratio—Empowering Manufacturing With Data-first Solutions

Ryan Gamble, CEO of Intraratio, shares insights into the company's 15-year journey in developing data-first software solutions for manufacturing. The focus is on empowering organizations through a cloud-based system that automates quality control and enhances efficiency. This system integrates seamlessly with existing machines, providing real-time inventory tracking and predictive maintenance, all while reducing labor needs and ensuring smooth deployment.

IPC President’s Award: Dr. Thomas Marktscheffel

At ASMPT SMT Solutions, Thomas Marktscheffel, director of product management software solutions, is responsible for the SMT line software portfolio. As a member and leader of several IPC committees, he is also a driving force for global industry standards such as IPC-2591 CFX and IPC-HERMES-9852, which make it possible to provide plug-and-play connectivity for intelligent SMT Factories. In 2015, he participated in the IPC-1782 A-team and subsequently joined the IPC-2591 CFX standard A-team, which became the new SMT industry communication standard following its first release in March 2019.

Cogiscan: A New Era of Leadership, Collaboration, and Innovation

Cogiscan, the leading platform provider for factory data focused on the unique needs of PCBA and complex manufacturing ecosystems, has had a lot of news recently. New CEO Martin Drolet, and Benoît Ouellet, VP of technology and operations, discuss their vision for the company’s future through the transition following the retirement of the company’s founders—André Corriveau, Francois Monette, and Vincent Dubois. Martin and Benoît emphasize a commitment to customer-centricity, collaboration, and the integration of cutting-edge technology like AI, with an eye toward the unique demands of high reliability manufacturing ecosystems. These new leaders are poised to continue addressing unique challenges and bright future of the PCBA industry.

I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week

The word for this week (again) is tariffs. Another week has gone by, and the tariff mandates continue with neither the U.S. or China backing down on a course that could be disastrous for businesses and the economy in the short term. As we all wait and watch the geopolitical volley, our businesses forge ahead. As one industry leader recently said, “We’ve been through this before.” Well, maybe not exactly this, but the resilience of our industry and business leaders has been proven over and over, decade upon decade. Check out our coverage of the latest IPC tariff webinar, which includes a snapshot of the tariff situation as it stands now.​​​​​​ But it's not over, not by a long shot.

IPC Webinar Review: Tariff Tensions Influence Electronics Supply Chain

IPC continued its important discussion of the operational impact of new tariff policies on the electronics manufacturing supply chain by addressing a primarily European audience in a webinar on Thursday, April 10. This webinar focused on critical developments in global trade policy affecting Europe, and how trade tensions are influencing strategic decisions across the electronics supply chain.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Technica's Innovations and Partnerships

Jason Perry of Technica USA and Robert Beber of Reeco share about the engagement at their extra-large booth at this year's show, where they showcased 11 pieces of equipment and announced the new partnership for Technica with Reeco, supplier of ESD clothing and workbenches. With a positive industry outlook despite global trade uncertainties, Technica has plans to expand in North America.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: SPEA—Optimizing Testing Processes in PCBA

Mike Sexton and Dustin Warren of SPEA explore market dynamics for PCBA manufacturers. They emphasize the need for optimizing testing processes, introducing deep In-Circuit Test (ICT) technology that identifies weak components often overlooked by traditional tests. The discussion also covers flying probe technology, highlighting its flexibility for high-mix, low-volume production and comparing it with ICT testing methods.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Reporting on the Future of X-ray Technology With Creative Electron

Bill Cardoso, CEO of Creative Electron, talks about the changing landscape of X-ray technology. He says the rise of miniaturization and complexity in assemblies, along with the introduction of fully automated 3D X-ray machines to meet U.S. demand are driving the technology. Bill predicts a future where X-ray technology becomes more affordable and widespread.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: The Test Connection's Legacy and New Developments

Bert Horner, president of The Test Connection Inc., discusses the 45-year journey of the company, which was, founded by his father in 1980. The Test Connection has evolved from consulting to providing comprehensive test engineering and services. He emphasizes the critical role of design for test and the challenges faced in test methodologies without physical access. Bert also introduces The Training Connection, which offers certification and training, enhancing practical learning through its synergy with the test lab.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Takaya Focusing On Customer Engagement

David Levine discusses the two new Takaya flying probe tester models on the show floor this year. The advanced features include an innovative liquid lens technology for improved focus in industrial applications, and zero impact probes for RF boards. Real map technology enhances testing accuracy, while eighth generation system improvements even offer remote viewing. The integration of potential for AI with test data is also discussed.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Navigating Economic Headwinds in the Electronics Industry

Shawn DuBravac, IPC Chief Economist, highlights the industry's resilience amid economic challenges, noting ongoing investment despite uncertainty and rising interest rates. Consumer behavior shows caution, with slowing spending and weakening confidence. A global economic overview reveals strengths in the U.S., challenges in China, and struggles in Europe. The discussion emphasizes the negative impact of tariffs and the importance of resilient supply chains.

IPC APEX EXPO Special Sessions: A Focus on Advanced Electronic Packaging

The IPC Technology Solutions team hosted two special sessions on Thursday, March 20 at IPC APEX EXPO 2025 focused on advanced electronic packaging. The first session focused on AI/data center applications and the second on power electronics applications. The day kicked off with opening remarks on strategic direction of IPC in the area of advanced electronic packaging from Matt Kelly, IPC CTO, and an overview of the current landscape of component and system level packaging by Devan Iyer, PhD, IPC chief strategist, advanced packaging.

IPC President’s Award: Cathy Hanlin

The IPC President’s Award is given to IPC members who have exhibited ongoing leadership in IPC and have made significant contributions of time and talent to the association and the electronic interconnect industry. Individuals can receive this award only once. Cathy Hanlin was general manager at Precision Manufacturing Company Inc. A valued IPC/WHMA committee member, she was well known for her contributions to standards development. Cathy passed away last fall.

A Look Into the Future With Futurist Kevin Surace

In this interview after his keynote address at IPC APEX EXPO 2025, futurist Kevin Surace reflects on important lessons learned and how they shaped his own future. He also makes some bold predictions for the use of AI in PCB board design, fabrication, and assembly—and what the common household will look like in 10 years. It’s an exciting and adventurous step into a future where humans work alongside robots, all for the betterment of everyone.

I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week

There was big news throughout the week on a global economic scale. Everything is moving so fast it’s hard to follow. I sat in on a webinar about the U.S. tariff changes announced on April 2, and even the policy wonks, whose life’s purpose is to be expert in these things, couldn’t keep up. One speaker was checking government information websites, and listening to the news on the television even as she gave her update.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Axxon—Leading Innovations in Dispensing Technology

Axxon-Mycronic showcases its four major divisions this year, highlighting their focus on dispensing technology and conformal coating for electronics. Jeff Leal, Director of Business Development and Strategy, explains how his company is expanding into North America, particularly in Mexico and Europe, backed by a strong customer service model.

My Top 10 Highlights from IPC APEX EXPO 2025

Every year, I am reminded what an exciting and fast-paced whirlwind IPC APEX EXPO is—the friends you run into, the new people you meet, the innovations you encounter, and the fascinating discussions you dive into. It’s certainly true that our industry is driven by searchers and problem-solvers, creating endless opportunities at APEX EXPO to connect, collaborate, and shape the future.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: New Dispensing and Coating Solutions from Rehm

Michael Hanke, Global Sales Officer at Rehm, discusses new dispensing and coating equipment developed in Germany. He emphasizes the significance of software integration with customer systems to tackle market challenges.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Nordson's Expansion of Intelligent Technologies

Jonathia Ang-Mueller gives an update on Nordson's latest selective soldering system which features a small footprint, offering cost savings and increased production capacity. Advanced software allows for pre-sales simulations, enhancing customer engagement.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Advanced Silicone Solutions from CHT

CHT team members introduce themselves and share their roles, with Kate Sincerbox focusing on technical service and Lisa Stutzman on inside sales. CHT specializes in silicone materials for encapsulation, adhesives, and coatings, serving the automotive and aerospace sectors.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Innovations at Indium Corporation—A Look into the Future

Indium Corporation, led by CEO Ross Berntson, is making strides in automotive applications with innovative solder paste technologies. The company prioritizes sustainability and energy efficiency in manufacturing while developing its workforce through partnerships with local universities.

IPC APEX EXPO 2025: We’ve Got It Covered

IPC APEX EXPO is the largest electronics manufacturing trade show in North America, bringing together professionals from all sectors of the supply chain to educate, network, and share their products and services. We’ve put all our coverage of the show in one easy-to-find location. Just click on “Videos,” “Show Coverage” and “Photos” to find what you’re looking for. Check back regularly as more content is added. You won’t want to miss any of our unique coverage. 

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Akrometrix—Creative Approaches to Measuring Thermal Warpage

Neil Hubble discusses his research on measuring thermal warpage which focuses on challenges in testing small, thin samples. He introduces non-destructive testing methods that effectively measure without damaging components. Neil highlights the industry's growing interest in AI and outlines future technology goals, including improved resolution and automation to enhance production efficiency.

IPC APEX EXPO 2025 Review: Expecting the Unexpected

One of the best things about trade shows is not the scheduled meetings but the chance meetings that come up unexpectedly. Just because you happened to go down one aisle instead of the next, you bump into an old acquaintance that you have not seen for years, or you happen to talk to the guy in line next to you to get a $5 Pepsi, and it turns into a great, new connection.   

I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week

I’ve spent my week recovering from a busy and interesting week in Anaheim for the 25th IPC APEX EXPO. I think back to my first APEX EXPO, and the changes since then are too numerous to count. I first attended in 2004, also in Anaheim, back when there was almost no design content in the conference or expo portions of the show. It was just a few years after the downturn, and attendees and exhibitors alike were skittish, almost afraid to show confidence in our industry. A few unemployed design friends handed out copies of their resumes. Travel budgets were still down, and the aisles weren’t exactly packed with traffic.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Aegis—Advancements in AI and Cybersecurity Compliance

In this interview, Jason Spera of Aegis Software discusses the impact of AI on data models and operational capabilities. He highlights customer feedback on MES systems, emphasizing the need for comprehensive reporting. Aegis has a new inventory auditing system that supports incremental audits, ensuring productivity.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Koh Young—AI's Impact on the Electronics Industry

Koh Young's Joel Scutchfield discusses the role of AI in the electronics industry. He emphasizes data quality's importance for automation and the development of AI engines for specific tools. The conversation covers market trends in PCB and semiconductor technologies, trade negotiations, and the challenges of reshoring.

The Rising Term Premium: A Closer Look at the Implications of a Decade-high Surge

In recent months, financial markets have grappled with various conflicting signals, trying to reconcile strong economic performance with persistent uncertainties. While the U.S. economy appears robust and recession risks over the next 12 months have diminished significantly, several factors continue to drive an uncertain outlook.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Kyzen—Enhancing PCB Cleaning Processes

Jayson Moy of KYZEN discusses recent changes the company has made that are aimed at adding value to the industry. He highlights the significance of a reliable cleaning process for PCBs, which can prevent issues and boost efficiency.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Blackfox—The Future of the Electronics Manufacturing Industry Depends on Training

Blackfox's Levi Gibbon is a newcomer to IPC APEX EXPO, but he has been in electronics manufacturing since 1999. In this interview, he focuses on quality assurance and teaching. He discusses the challenges posed by an aging workforce and the urgent need for new talent as experienced trainers retire.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Mycronic's Evolution Drives Record-breaking Year

Kevin Clue reports that Mycronic is experiencing record revenue and positive stock performance. The company transitions from a pick-and-place supplier to a full-line solution provider, facing challenges with diverse components and complex bills of materials. Manufacturing efficiency and skilled manpower are emphasized.

Finding Strength Through Laughter: IPC Women in Electronics Reception Inspires and Engages

The IPC APEX EXPO 2025 Women in Electronics Reception brought together women from the global electronics industry to network, enjoy refreshments, and engage in an insightful presentation by keynote speaker Jody Urquhart, a motivational speaker, comedienne, and author.

Take the Next Step With IPC’s Spring Session of Instructor-led Courses

IPC continues to lead in professional development within the electronics industry, offering a diverse lineup of online instructor-led courses. These courses are designed to help professionals master new skills, stay ahead of technological advancements, and meet the challenges of today's dynamic industry environment.
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