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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 Announces New Thought Leaders Program Experts
March 15, 2023 | IPCEstimated reading time: 1 minute
IPC has revamped its Thought Leaders Program (TLP) an initiative designed to “mine” key industry experts’ insight and knowledge on issues driving change within the electronics industry.
Five experts have been selected to generate ideas and insights in five areas: education and workforce; technology and innovation; the economy; key markets; and environment, health, and safety. The TLP is chaired by Mike Carano, IPC consultant, and a member of IPC’s Hall of Fame.
New TLP member are:
- Peter Bigelow, President and CEO, IMI Incorporated
- Matt Holzmann, President, CGI Americas
- Stanton Rak, Principal, SF Rak Company
- Stephen Sweeney, Program Manager, Materials and Environmental Management, IBM
- Hiroyuki Watanabe, Executive Director, Global Security, NEC Corporation
The Thought Leaders’ responsibilities will include providing publishable material in their subject areas; flagging opportunities for IPC engagement; and participating in quarterly roundtable discussions. Each expert is expected to fulfill at least one 12-month term, during which quarterly contributions will be expected.
“I’m honored to work with such a diverse and august group of experts,” said Mike Carano. “The program is drawing on individuals who are leaders within the electronics manufacturing industry and who also have insights into market research, trends, cybersecurity, high-tech production, emerging technologies, sustainability, business management, materials science and consulting. Our industry rapidly changes, and these experts have been assembled to provide guidance and solutions to lead and influence change toward building electronics better.”
For more information on the Thought Leaders Program, visit www.ipc.org/advocacy/ipc-thought-leaders-program.
Testimonial
"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.