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Beyond the Rulebook
What happens when the rule book is no longer useful, or worse, was never written in the first place? In today’s fast-moving electronics landscape, we’re increasingly asked to design and build what has no precedent, no proven path, and no tidy checklist to follow. This is where “Design for Invention” begins.
March Madness
From the growing role of AI in design tools to the challenge of managing cumulative tolerances, these articles in this issue examine the technical details, design choices, and manufacturing considerations that determine whether a board works as intended.
Looking Forward to APEX EXPO 2026
I-Connect007 Magazine previews APEX EXPO 2026, covering everything from the show floor to the technical conference. For PCB designers, we move past the dreaded auto-router and spotlight AI design tools that actually matter.
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IPC Issues New Report, The Evolution of Factories on the Future: What You Need to Know
December 13, 2022 | IPCEstimated reading time: 1 minute
IPC recently convened a roundtable of electronics executives to discuss trends driving the industry’s migration to the factory of the future. The executives came to a shared conclusion that the transition to the factory of the future features many challenges and pitfalls but making the transition will be increasingly critical to any company seeking to compete in the global economy. A summary of the discussion is now available: “The Evolution of Factories of the Future: What You Need to Know.”
In reaching their conclusion, the roundtable participants discussed common barriers in adopting smart manufacturing technologies and skill disparities in the electronics manufacturing workforce. They also shared practices they believed to be important as companies work to increase digitization and enhance manufacturing operations. Among other topics, company leaders talked about creating a workplace culture that embraces change and innovation.
“Executives agreed that despite the challenges in transitioning to the factory of the future, they have recognized the value in doing so and are now looking to integrate solutions that will deliver measurable benefits to their company,” said Matt Kelly, IPC chief technologist.
To view report, visit www.ipc.org/F2report. IPC offers additional resources to assist and guide the electronics manufacturing industry through the next industrial revolution. For more information, visit www.ipc.org/solutions/ipc-factory-future or www.ipc.org/advocacy/industry-intelligence.
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"We’re proud to call I-Connect007 a trusted partner. Their innovative approach and industry insight made our podcast collaboration a success by connecting us with the right audience and delivering real results."
Julia McCaffrey - NCAB GroupSuggested Items
Green Circuits Heads to Peterson SFB to Support Next-Gen Space and Defense Electronics
05/05/2026 | Green CircuitsThe event, hosted at Peterson Space Force Base, brings together key personnel and mission partners supporting critical U.S. defense and space operations.
GPV Boosts Profitability Amid Challenging Market
05/05/2026 | GPVDanish-based GPV, the second-largest European-headquartered EMS company, reported improved profitability in the first quarter of 2026 despite continued market uncertainty and supply chain challenges.
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.
Nolan’s Notes: Our Spotlight on North America
05/05/2026 | Nolan Johnson -- Column: Nolan's NotesIn this issue of SMT007 Magazine, we wrap up our electronics world tour with a final stop in the United States and Canada, where we look at the challenges, opportunities, and geopolitical dynamics affecting the market today. What makes American electronics unique? Key U.S. administration policy decisions, like tariffs, are significantly affecting electronics manufacturing. Others, such as the current conflict with Iran and the associated closures of the Strait of Hormuz, affect the raw materials that feed our supply chain.
EMAC Returns with Bright Electronics Manufacturing Challenge 2026
04/30/2026 | SMTAThe Electronics Manufacturing & Assembly Collaborative (EMAC) has announced the return of the Bright Electronics Manufacturing Challenge 2026, an immersive, hands-on student competition that puts real electronics manufacturing experience into the hands of the next generation of engineers.