-
- News
- Books
Featured Books
- smt007 Magazine
Latest Issues
Current IssueDo You Have X-ray Vision?
Has X-ray’s time finally come in electronics manufacturing? Join us in this issue of SMT007 Magazine, where we answer this question and others to bring more efficiency to your bottom line.
IPC APEX EXPO 2025: A Preview
It’s that time again. If you’re going to Anaheim for IPC APEX EXPO 2025, we’ll see you there. In the meantime, consider this issue of SMT007 Magazine to be your golden ticket to planning the show.
Technical Resources
Key industry organizations–all with knowledge sharing as a part of their mission–share their technical repositories in this issue of SMT007 Magazine. Where can you find information critical to your work? Odds are, right here.
- Articles
- Columns
Search Console
- Links
- Media kit
||| MENU - smt007 Magazine
25 Years of IPC APEX EXPO: Organizer Alicia Balonek Reflects on a Milestone
March 28, 2025 | Alicia Balonek, IPCEstimated reading time: 1 minute

As I celebrate my 25th work anniversary with IPC, I can’t help but reflect on my incredible journey. From its inception in 2000, IPC APEX EXPO has evolved into one of the most anticipated and dynamic events in the electronics industry, and I’m proud to have been a part of its growth every step of the way.
The Early Days: Building a Foundation
When IPC APEX EXPO first launched, the world of electronics was at a different stage of development. The rapid advancement of technology and the globalization of supply chains were just beginning to reshape the landscape. In those early years, managing the show required not only a clear vision but also an understanding of the industry's shifting needs. IPC, with its deep ties to the industry, was well-positioned to create a platform that could bring together key stakeholders—from engineers and designers to suppliers and manufacturers.
One of the most significant challenges in those early days was establishing IPC APEX EXPO as a must-attend event. Because we were competing against long-standing industry shows, we had to carve out a unique space for ourselves, offering not only a showcase of leading equipment manufacturers and suppliers but also valuable educational sessions and networking opportunities. The feedback we received from the first few events was overwhelmingly positive and affirmed that we were on the right path.
Adapting to Industry Changes: The Role of Technology and Innovation
Over the past 25 years, one of the most rewarding aspects of managing IPC APEX EXPO has been witnessing the rapid technological innovations that have shaped the electronics industry. From the rise of smart manufacturing and automation to the increasing emphasis on sustainability and green electronics, the industry has transformed. Each year, IPC APEX EXPO has had to adapt to these changes, ensuring that the show remains relevant and provides a space for industry leaders to address the most pressing issues of the time.
The show has become much more than just a trade show—it’s a reflection of the industry’s progress. We’ve seen companies debut revolutionary technologies that went on to reshape electronics manufacturing.
Continue reading this article in the Spring 2025 issue of IPC Community.
Suggested Items
IPC Strengthens Global Leadership Team with Addition of Joe Schneider as Vice President of U.S/Canada
04/25/2025 | IPCIPC, the global electronics association, announces the strategic appointment of Joe Schneider as vice president of U.S./Canada. This newly created executive position underscores the association’s commitment to championing the electronics industry's critical contributions to this region’s innovation and economic growth.
Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Empowering IPC North Asia—Leadership and Future Goals
04/24/2025 | Real Time with...IPC APEX EXPONolan Johnson catches up with Sydney Xiao, the IPC North Asia President, who leads a team covering China, Taiwan, Japan, and Korea. IPC's North Asia regions 800 members are focusing on standards, training, and advocacy to enhance quality and profitability. The adoption of IPC standards by Toyota in 2021 highlights this increased regional engagement. IPC prioritizes workforce development, with over 7,000 professionals in certification programs and school partnerships.
Recognizing the IPC Committee Volunteer Awards in 2025
04/24/2025 | Patty Goldman, I-Connect007In 2023, IPC created two new awards to honor standards development committee volunteers: The Hillman-Lambert Award for Volunteer of the Year and the Kessler-Goldman Award for Committee Leader of the Year. The awards were named after Hall of Fame members whose service to standards development is well-known and who have demonstrated the skills and principles that the awardees should also have.
IPC Rising Star Award: Young-Ho Hwang, Guru E&E
04/23/2025 | Nolan Johnson, I-Connect007Since 2022, IPC has made significant progress for its Korean members. Young-Ho Hwang has been instrumental in driving these developments. As a core advisory committee member and chair of the 610 RTG, he has played a key role in guiding IPC Korea’s strategic direction, championed the development and adoption of IPC standards across industries, and fostered strong collaborations with stakeholders.
Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: IPC's Growth and Future in India's Manufacturing Sector
04/23/2025 | Real Time with...IPC APEX EXPOGaurab Majumdar, VP for IPC in SE Asia and India, highlights IPC's impressive growth in India, with certification numbers rising significantly. The Indian manufacturing sector is projected to reach a $300 billion market, alongside a $10 billion investment in semiconductors. IPC is addressing industry demands through standards development and a new workforce project aimed at training students for job placements.