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Austin American Technology Creates Buzz with Justin Worden’s 1st SMTA Presentation
September 7, 2023 | Austin American Technology (AAT)Estimated reading time: 1 minute
Justin Worden, the dynamic Global Sales and Marketing Director at Austin American Technology (AAT), is no stranger to creating a buzz in the electronics industry. Known for his engaging presence on social media platforms, Worden and AAT have gained recognition for their unconventional marketing strategies. This reputation was once again validated at the recent Surface Mount Technology Association (SMTA) - High Reliability Cleaning and Conformal Coating Conference in Dallas, TX.
The High Reliability Cleaning and Conformal Coating Conference, held biennially, features personal development and educational presentations by some of the electronics industry's foremost cleaning and conformal coating specialists. Worden joined the ranks of these experts as a presenter, accompanied by AAT President Todd Rountree and AAT Founder & CTO Steve Stach.
Worden's presentation diverged from the conventional format typically seen at such events. Instead of a solo presenter clicking through a PowerPoint, attendees experienced a unique and engaging session. The presentation began with a touch of humor, courtesy of technical difficulties with not one, but three malfunctioning microphones. Worden transitioned into an interactive style reminiscent of a late-night talk show host. The audience was treated to an energetic panel discussion, resembling a celebrity interview with Rountree and Stach.
Initial feedback from attendees was appreciation for hosting such an enthusiastic and memorable presentation. For many young engineers in the audience, the highlight of their week in Dallas, TX, was the opportunity to interact with Steve Stach, a pioneer in the industry. Others enjoyed the chance to reconnect with old friends.
As anticipated, Worden delivered a highly impactful experience during his inaugural SMTA presentation. His ability to engage and inspire left a lasting impression on all in attendance, further solidifying his reputation as a forward-thinking industry influencer.
Testimonial
"Our marketing partnership with I-Connect007 is already delivering. Just a day after our press release went live, we received a direct inquiry about our updated products!"
Rachael Temple - AlltematedSuggested Items
I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week
05/08/2026 | Marcy LaRont, I-Connect007This week, I’ve selected some outstanding interviews that you’ll want to take note of. First, is a roundtable discussion featuring three dynamic industry cybersecurity experts. Please watch this important discussion that affects us all. Following that, I spotlight the IPC-2581 Consortium, which explains why IPC-2581 is the standard to replace Gerber data for manufacturing. Next, I am including my interview with PCBAA and AAM, who collaborated to release a short documentary on U.S. PCB manufacturing.
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.