Learning with Leo: Drones—Meeting Demand Without Compromise
Nolan’s Notes: Our Spotlight on North America
Global Sourcing Spotlight: Building a Supply Chain That Bends, Not Breaks
SMTconnect 2020 Offers Free Visitor Registration, Extensive Networking Opportunities
July 20, 2020 | SMTconnectEstimated reading time: 1 minute
The program of the SMTconnect goes digital, which takes place from 28 – 29 July 2020, is now almost complete. Well-known representatives from the industry, including the VDMA, ZVEI and the Fraunhofer IZM, will be on board. In addition to the latest developments in the field, participants can expect unique networking features and exciting presentations on electronics manufacturing.
An important focus this year is the development of the industry in times of Corona, a subject the VDMA will be holding a press conference on at the beginning of the event. Subsequently, there will be several exciting panel discussions, including one by media partner SCOOP on the accelerated digital transformation of the industry due to COVID-19. The unique "Future Packaging" production line, which depicts the entire manufacturing process of an electronic component, will be shown virtually on the first day of the event, and organized by the Fraunhofer IZM.
Extensive networking options
The exchange of knowledge remains highly relevant this year. The SMTconnect will therefore continue to offer participants a valuable platform for cross-industry networking. In this respect, SMTconnect goes digital will be providing numerous opportunities to find out about the latest products and services within electronics manufacturing and to connect.
While the matchmaking function of the integrated communication tool will support participants to find the right contact, they can also add up to five new contacts in just 30 minutes on both days with the optional business “speed-dating” function. Furthermore, it is possible to network with all active participants at any given time.
Registration for the event is free of charge. Visit smtconnect.com for details and registration.
Share on:
Testimonial
"The I-Connect007 team is outstanding—kind, responsive, and a true marketing partner. Their design team created fresh, eye-catching ads, and their editorial support polished our content to let our brand shine. Thank you all! "
Sweeney Ng - CEE PCBSuggested Items
Hall of Fame Spotlight Series: Highlighting Karen McConnell
05/07/2026 | Dan Feinberg, I-Connect007In 2021, Karen McConnell was awarded the Raymond E. Pritchard Hall of Fame award in recognition of her contributions to the Association and the electronics industry. As a senior staff member and CAD/CAM engineer at Northrop Grumman Enterprise Services, her primary responsibility was to develop a common, shared EDM (Electronic Document Management) library to support the electrical and PCB design tool initiatives across Northrop Grumman Mission Systems.
A Necessary Shift From Gerber to IPC-2581
05/07/2026 | Tracy Riggan, Global Electronics AssociationIPC-2581 is an open, vendor-neutral data exchange standard developed by the Global Electronics Association to streamline the exchange of PCB design information across fabrication, assembly, and test. It replaces multiple legacy formats—including industry standards, Gerber, and ODB++—with a single, comprehensive, XML-based dataset that captures all manufacturing details.
Meet Emerging Engineers: Patrick Owen and Eric Mickenbecker, Summit Interconnect
05/05/2026 | Michelle Te, I-Connect007Patrick Owen and Eric Mickenbecker both work for Summit Interconnect, and are in their second year of the Global Electronics Association’s Emerging Engineer Program with mentor Brian Chislea. They stopped by the I-Connect007 booth at APEX EXPO and shared a bit of their story with me. Patrick has worked at the Hollister, California, plant since 2018, while Eric has been at the Chicago site since 2023. Like many of their peers, they came to the electronics industry from different paths, but are both excited about making an impact.
PCBAA, AAM Take on the Fight to Rebuild U.S. Manufacturing in New Documentary
05/05/2026 | Marcy LaRont, I-Connect007Throughout most of the 20th century, manufacturing was central to the American Dream of providing stable jobs and pathways to upward mobility. Today, more than 80% of global electronics manufacturing capacity resides in China and greater Asia, raising serious concerns about supply chain resilience and national security.
I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week
05/01/2026 | Michelle Te, I-Connect007If it feels like the PCB industry is accelerating faster than ever, you’re not imagining it. From advanced materials driven by AI applications to renewed investment in domestic manufacturing—and the next generation stepping into critical roles—there’s a lot shifting at once. My selections for this week highlight where the pressure points are forming, and where the opportunities are emerging.