Target Condition: Are Autorouters Friend or Foe?
Fresh PCB Concepts: Assembly Challenges with Micro Components and Standard Solder Mask Practices
Elementary Mr. Watson: Retro Routers vs. Modern Boards—The Silent Struggle on Your Screen
Tom Edman Leads IPC Board of Directors
July 17, 2024 | Marcy LaRont, PCB007 MagazineEstimated reading time: 2 minutes
IPC elected several new board members at IPC APEX EXPO in April, including new Board Chair Tom Edman, CEO of TTM, who assumes the role from Bob Neves, CTO and chair of Microtek Laboratories. Tom and TTM have long been active in many facets of IPC. I caught up with Tom and asked him about his new board appointment, IPC, and the industry he serves. He emphasizes IPC’s work in standards and advocacy as especially important for our industry.
Tom, from your perspective, what does it mean to chair the IPC Board? What is your role, and how long is your term?
My term is for two years. I am thrilled to be chair at this exciting time with IPC as the organization continues its work on behalf of electronics manufacturers. The vision for the organization will continue to allow IPC to build on its foundation of standards development while strengthening key areas such as workforce development, policy representation, sustainability, and design.
Why is involvement in IPC important for industry companies? What would you tell someone who may be considering membership?
I would explain the critical role that IPC plays in representing our industry and the direct help that IPC provides with critical industry standards, training materials, funding opportunities, policy support, and networking opportunities, among other benefits, all with a competitive dues structure. The breadth of IPC’s global capabilities is astounding to me and has served to benefit TTM as well as so many other electronics manufacturers.
As a leader and ambassador for IPC over these next two years, what are your goals?
Frankly, my goal is to aid John Mitchell and the other executives at IPC in implementing a growth strategy that is truly impressive. John and the team have the support of an engaged and energetic board in realizing their goals. We just need to support these goals in any way possible.
What advice do you have from a leadership and strategy standpoint for small business owners who may be trying to decide whether to participate in the next evolution of PCB fabrication?
I would suggest that we all have a role to play in supporting our customers. As our customers move to new designs that require increased capabilities, I believe that everyone in the industry will benefit by investing strategically in capabilities that enhance their growth. New designs will coexist with older designs, which, hopefully, will offer all of us profitable opportunities.
This conversation appeared in the June 2024 issue of PCB007 Magazine.
Share on:
Suggested Items
The Global Electronics Association Releases IPC-8911: First-Ever Conductive Yarn Standard for E-Textile Application
07/02/2025 | Global Electronics AssociationThe Global Electronics Association announces the release of IPC-8911, Requirements for Conductive Yarns for E-Textiles Applications. This first-of-its-kind global standard establishes a clear framework for classifying, designating, and qualifying conductive yarns—helping to address longstanding challenges in supply chain communication, product testing, and material selection within the growing e-textiles industry.
IPC-CFX, 2.0: How to Use the QPL Effectively
07/02/2025 | Chris Jorgensen, Global Electronics AssociationIn part one of this series, we discussed the new features in CFX Version 2.0 and their implications for improved inter-machine communication. But what about bringing this new functionality to the shop floor? The IPC-CFX-2591 QPL is a powerful technical resource for manufacturers seeking CFX-enabled equipment. The Qualified Product List (QPL) helps streamline equipment selection by listing models verified for CFX compliance through a robust third-party virtual qualification process.
Advancing Aerospace Excellence: Emerald’s Medford Team Earns Space Addendum Certification
06/30/2025 | Emerald TechnologiesWe’re thrilled to announce a major achievement from our Medford, Oregon facility. Andy Abrigo has officially earned her credentials as a Certified IPC Trainer (CIT) under the IPC J-STD-001 Space Addendum, the leading industry standard for space and military-grade electronics manufacturing.
Magnalytix and Foresite to Host Technical Webinar on SIR Testing and Functional Reliability
06/26/2025 | MAGNALYTIXMagnalytix, in collaboration with Foresite Inc., is pleased to announce an upcoming one-hour Webinar Workshop titled “Comparing SIR IPC B-52 to Umpire 41 Functional & SIR Test Method.” This session will be held on July 24, 2025, and is open to professionals in electronics manufacturing, reliability engineering, and process development seeking insights into new testing standards for climatic reliability.
IPC Rebrands as Global Electronics Association: Interview With Dr. John W. Mitchell
06/22/2025 | Marcy LaRont, I-Connect007Today, following a major announcement, IPC is embracing the rapid advancement of technology with a bold decision to change its name to the Global Electronics Association. This name more accurately reflects the full breadth of its work and the modern realities of electronics manufacturing. In this exclusive interview, Global Electronics Association President and CEO Dr. John W. Mitchell shares the story behind the rebrand: Why now, what it means for the industry, and how it aligns with the organization’s mission.