The Knowledge Base: Beyond the Badge—Why Membership Matters More Than Ever
Smart Automation: AI—Revolutionizing Inspection in Electronics Manufacturing
Standard of Excellence: The Role of Technology in Enhancing the Customer Experience
The Test Connection, Inc. Launches The Training Connection to Address Critical Test Engineering and Development Needs
January 24, 2025 | The Test Connection Inc.Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
The Test Connection Inc. (TTCI), a leading provider of electronic test and manufacturing solutions, is excited to announce the launch of its newest venture, The Training Connection, LLC, a company dedicated to addressing the growing need for practical and effective training in test engineering and development. With a focus on critical methodologies such as Design for Test (DFT) and IPC standards, The Training Connection is poised to empower professionals with the tools and expertise they need to excel.
The Training Connection offers in-depth classes covering a wide range of topics, including test engineering, test development, design for in-circuit test (ICT), and boundary scan, as well as IPC certification courses (IPC-A-610, IPC/WHMA-A-620, and IPC-A-600) and solder training. These programs are designed to help engineers and technicians bridge the skills gap, improve product designs, and optimize test methodologies for greater efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
“The response to The Training Connection has been overwhelmingly positive,” said Bert Horner, President of TTCI. “We’ve identified a critical need in the industry and are committed to equipping professionals with the knowledge and certifications they need to succeed. By focusing on education, we’re helping our customers improve their designs, reduce costs, and bring products to market faster—all while fostering a deeper understanding of test engineering.”
The Training Connection currently operates from its main training centers in Baltimore, Maryland, and Tampa, Florida, with plans to expand to other regions across the United States. While all classes are currently conducted in person, the company is actively working on launching online training options to reach a broader audience.
Key Features of The Training Connection:
- Industry-Relevant Curriculum: Courses focus on essential methodologies like DFT, ICT, and IPC standards.
- Hands-On Learning: In-person training designed to provide practical, actionable skills.
- Expansion Plans: Training centers in key geographic regions with online classes in development.
- Continuous Improvement: A feedback-driven approach to ensure courses evolve with industry needs.
As part of its mission, The Training Connection emphasizes educating customers to empower them to design better products, save time and money, and improve overall quality. “Progress happens when we equip engineers with the skills to anticipate and solve problems in their designs,” Horner explained. “An educated customer is a successful customer, and that success benefits everyone.”
With baby boomers retiring and a new generation of engineers entering the workforce, The Training Connection is uniquely positioned to address the demand for skilled professionals in test engineering and development. Horner anticipates steady growth for the company through 2025 and beyond, fueled by its commitment to delivering high-quality training and fostering a culture of continuous learning.
Share on:
Suggested Items
The Knowledge Base: Beyond the Badge—Why Membership Matters More Than Ever
05/28/2025 | Mike Konrad -- Column: The Knowledge BaseMembership in trade associations like the Surface Mount Technology Association (SMTA) offers substantial benefits that can significantly enhance a professional's career in the electronics manufacturing industry. These advantages encompass extensive networking opportunities, access to specialized technical conferences, and complimentary training programs, all contributing to professional growth and industry recognition.
LSI ADL Technology Leverages IPC Membership for Growth, Training, and Industry Leadership
05/28/2025 | Michelle Te, IPC CommunityWhether attending the EMS Leadership Summit at IPC APEX EXPO, or subscribing to workforce training, LSI ADL Technology has noted several positive changes directly related to its IPC membership. “Collaboration, brainstorming, and sharing best practices have been the most important aspects of our partnership with IPC,” says Jonathan Verity, assistant general manager at LSI ADL Technology.
Trouble in Your Tank: Yield Improvement and Reliability
05/22/2025 | Michael Carano -- Column: Trouble in Your TankThere’s a simple rule of business in manufacturing: “It is all about yields.” Higher yields for your products allow for increased profits and satisfied customers. When there are lower yields, overall cost to manufacture increases, and the additional time and strain on the factory floor affect the entire operation. Lower yields are often the result of “process drift,” when critical process parameters and specialized plating additives fall outside their acceptable ranges.
Geopolitical Tensions Fuel a Wave of AI Chip Independence as US and Chinese CSPs Race to Develop In-House ASICs
05/15/2025 | TrendForceTrendForce’s latest research reveals that the surge in demand for AI servers is accelerating the pace at which major US CSPs are developing in-house ASICs, with new iterations being released every one to two years. In China, the AI server market is adjusting to new US export controls introduced in April 2025, which are expected to reduce the share of imported chips (e.g., from NVIDIA and AMD) from 63% in 2024 to around 42% in 2025.
IPC Excellence in Education Award: Zenaida Valianu
05/01/2025 | Nolan Johnson, I-Connect007Zenaida Valianu is the training manager at IPC who brings more than 25 years of expertise in standards and training development to her role. She has revolutionized IPC certification training programs by significantly enhancing their content with comprehensive curricula and engaging materials. She has also been instrumental in developing essential workforce training courses and contributing to various other initiatives.