Counterfeit Detection Course: It’s the Real Deal

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Anthony (Tony) Bryant is a trained expert in component counterfeiting techniques who has been collaborating with IPC on a new intermediate-level course on counterfeits. Tony is in final preparation to launch this course and shared his reasons for the course, as well as information about its content and value to EMS companies.

Nolan Johnson: Tony, tell me a little about yourself in the context of this course. 

Tony Bryant: In my 35 years working with counterfeits, I have witnessed firsthand the pervasive issue of substandard and counterfeit electronic components. My journey began in the U.S. Navy, where I saw firsthand the consequences of equipment failures.

Upon transitioning to the civilian sector, I pursued advanced training at some of the military's leading electronics institutions, including ACI Technologies Inc., formerly known as the American Competitiveness Institute (ACI) in Philadelphia.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the problem of counterfeiting escalated significantly. In the 2020-2021 timeframe, I personally encountered 19-20 instances where parts that had been previously identified, rejected, and confiscated by the government resurfaced in the supply chain. This recurring cycle of non-conforming materials poses a persistent threat to the industry.

As a result, I developed this intermediate-level course designed not only for test technicians and quality inspectors but also for procurement professionals and engineers who play a crucial role in managing electronic components. By equipping these individuals with the knowledge and skills to identify and mitigate counterfeit risks, we can collectively combat this growing challenge. 

Johnson: What are some of the topics in the class? 

Bryant: The course delves into some key topics, including the scope and consequences, supply chain impact, detection and prevention, mitigation and management, legal and regulatory frameworks, and finally, proper disposal. 

Through this comprehensive training, participants will acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively address the threat of counterfeit electronics, safeguarding their organizations, and ensuring the integrity of critical supply chains.

Johnson: Tony, who would you expect to take this course?

Bryant: Professionals who are working in any sector where component failures can have severe consequences—for example, supply chain professionals in high-reliability organizations, such as aerospace, defense, medical, and critical infrastructure sectors, which include the transit system, automotive industry, and so forth. 

Regulatory compliance officers, quality assurance, and quality control personnel will normally undergo the training. Now, engineers and procurement sourcing specialists can do that as well. One emerging area is the healthcare industry. Historically, they’ve refused to believe they have counterfeit parts in their organization. The thing is that everyone has problems with counterfeiting. 

To read this entire conversation, which appeared in the July 2024 issue of SMT007 Magazine, click here.