Elementary, Mr. Watson: Design Data Packages—Circle of Concern or Circle of Influence?
Fresh PCB Concepts: The Power of a Lunch & Learn for PCB Professionals
The Shaughnessy Report: Solving the Data Package Puzzle
Elevating PCB Design Engineering With IPC Programs
April 24, 2024 | Cory Blaylock, IPCEstimated reading time: 1 minute
In a monumental stride for the electronics manufacturing industry, IPC has successfully championed the recognition of the PCB Design Engineer as an official occupation by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). This pivotal achievement not only underscores the critical role of PCB design engineers within the technology landscape, but also marks the beginning of a transformative journey toward nurturing a robust, skilled workforce ready to propel our industry into the future.
At the heart of this journey is IPC's unwavering commitment to developing National Program Standards that cater to the intricate needs of electronics manufacturing, emphasizing the importance of a highly trained workforce. The approval of the PCB design engineer occupation by the U.S. DOL is a testament to the collective vision and relentless efforts of countless individuals within the IPC community as well as the industry, which believes in the power of education, training, and standardization.
The PCB design engineer role is foundational to the electronics manufacturing value stream, serving as the linchpin that transforms innovative ideas into tangible, functioning technologies. These engineers are tasked with the intricate design of PCBs, which serve as the backbone for nearly all electronic devices. Their work supports not just the creation of new products but also the enhancement of existing technologies, ensuring they meet the ever-evolving demands of consumers and industries alike.
Recognizing the PCB design engineer as a distinct occupation highlights the specialized skill set these professionals bring to the table. It acknowledges the complexity of their work, which requires a deep understanding of electrical engineering principles, proficiency in design software, and an acute awareness of manufacturing processes and constraints. More importantly, it shines a light on the critical need for tailored training and education programs that can prepare individuals for success in this challenging and rewarding field.
To read this entire article, which appeared in the April 2024 issue of Design007 Magazine, click here.
Share on:
Suggested Items
Canadian Circuits Inc. Unveils Rapid Prototype PCB Assembly Service to Accelerate Innovation
05/14/2025 | Canadian Circuits, Inc.Canadian Circuits Inc. (CCI), a leading provider of high-quality, made-in-Canada, Printed Circuit Board (PCB) solutions, is proud to announce the launch of its Prototype PCB Assembly (PCBA) service. This new offering enhances CCI’s commitment to empowering engineers and OEMs by accelerating the journey from concept to product launch with precision and efficiency in electronics manufacturing.
New Episode of NCAB Podcast Series Explores Cutting-edge Thermal Management Solutions
05/14/2025 | I-Connect007In this episode we continue the conversation with NCAB Field Application Engineer Ryan Miller as we dive into practical design and manufacturing techniques for controlling thermal effects. Topics include via farms, insulated metal substrates, coin technology, and copper pedestals—solutions that help meet today's high-performance demands.
American Standard Circuits to Exhibit and Speak at SMTA Oregon Expo
05/14/2025 | American Standard CircuitsAnaya Vardya, President, and CEO of American Standard Sunstone Circuits has announced that his company will be exhibiting SMTA Oregon Expo & Tech Forum to be held on May 20 at the Wingspan Events and Conference Center in Hillsboro, Oregon.
indie Semiconductor Reports Q1 2025 Results
05/13/2025 | BUSINESS WIREindie Semiconductor, Inc., an automotive solutions innovator, today announced first quarter results for the period ended March 31, 2025. Q1 revenue was up 3.3 percent year-over-year to $54.1 million with Non-GAAP gross margin of 49.5 percent. On a GAAP basis, first quarter 2025 operating loss was $38.9 million compared to $49.6 million a year ago.
Elementary, Mr. Watson: Design Data Packages—Circle of Concern or Circle of Influence?
05/14/2025 | John Watson -- Column: Elementary, Mr. WatsonI've often been asked, "Can you have a perfect PCB design?" At first blush, it seems like the answer should be yes. After all, if you follow all the rules, double-check your work, and use the right tools, it should be perfect. Right?