SMTA International 2019 Concludes Successfully

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The 2019 SMTA International Conference and Exhibition, which took place September 22 – 26, 2019 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, brought together over 1300 electronics manufacturing professionals including engineers, technologists, executives, and academics as well as over 160 exhibiting companies to share knowledge and solutions.

The technical conference continued the tradition of being the strongest in the electronics assembly industry. Over 120 research papers were presented on topics including advanced packaging technology, material applications like solder and adhesives, harsh environment applications, inspection technologies, lead-free soldering technology, manufacturing excellence, substrates/PCB technology, and technical innovations.

The Women’s Leadership Program hosted speakers from Intel and Microsoft on Monday afternoon. A Speed Mentoring session followed and the program concluded with a Connection Reception including wine and appetizers for all attendees.

On Tuesday morning, attendees were treated to a keynote presentation by Adam Steltzner, Ph.D., NASA. Adam shared how he led the team that invented the ingenious "sky crane" landing system that so spectacularly landed the Mars rover, Curiosity, in 2012. The presentation was very well-received by the audience for its inspiring story of challenges overcome and lessons learned.

Lockheed Martin Space’s Vice President for Human Space Exploration and Orion Program Manager, W. Michael Hawes, DSc, was the featured keynote on Wednesday morning. He provided a behind-the-scenes look at Orion's development and technology innovations that empower this next generation spacecraft to take astronauts to explore farther than humankind has ever ventured.

Several events geared towards young professionals took place on Tuesday and Wednesday including the Jump Start 101 Technical Sessions, Career Development and Soft Skills Sessions, and the Job Fair/Speed Networking which were generally at capacity throughout each day.

Over 160 exhibiting companies filled the 100,000 sq. ft. exhibit hall bringing more equipment and new products than past years.

Next year the SMTA International Conference and Exhibition will be held September 27 - October 1, 2020.

About SMTA – A Global Association Working at a Local Level

The SMTA membership is an international network of professionals who build skills, share practical experience and develop solutions in electronic assembly technologies, including microsystems, emerging technologies, and related business operations.

For more information visit https://www.smta.org/smtai/.