Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Marcy’s Musings: Continuing to Invent the Future With SEL

Two years ago, PCB007 Magazine devoted an issue to Schweitzer Engineering Labs (SEL), a new captive greenfield PCB facility in Moscow, Idaho. (Read that issue here.) We highlighted some of the most cutting-edge achievements in facility layout, design, and equipment in the PCB fabrication industry. SEL was a shining example of what was possible, providing insight and inspiration to PCB fabricators looking toward growth and expansion. 

In that issue, we also examined business strategy and execution, noting that a visionary approach is essential for long-term success. Importantly, it was the effective execution of that strategy that turned vision into reality. The SEL facility was also a showcase for this kind of strategic planning and operation.

What does SEL look like today? Have they worked out the kinks and ramped up capability and capacity? How do they continue to plan for what’s ahead? Our new August issue answers those questions and more as we revisit Schweitzer Engineering Labs to see what can be learned and applied to your business.

We kick off this issue with an exclusive interview with SEL’s founder, Dr. Ed Schweitzer. His vision and energy keep the company looking ahead, and he offers insights into what makes a strong and successful business. He’s passionate about staying aligned with your values—a salve for the insecure times we seem to be living in. Get ready to be inspired.

We continue with a conversation with data center pioneer Mike Mosman, whose decades of experience offer candid insights into the evolving power and infrastructure challenges shaping the industry. We also speak with John Hendrickson and Jessi Hall of SEL, whose innovative manufacturing strategies and strong supplier partnerships highlight where advanced production is headed. Together, these interviews paint a clear picture of the lessons learned so far and the emerging opportunities that will define the road ahead.

To complete the picture, we learn how some of SEL’s vendor partners keep operations at the top of their game:

• GreenSource Engineering: Their work was foundational to SEL in designing the shop floor layout, recommending vendor partners, managing the build, and training staff
• Sigma Mecer: Offers a copper plate-out system for closed-loop processing and regeneration of both water and copper
• IPS: Built an 81-foot fully inline ENIG system
• MKS’ Atotech: Installed the Uniplate PLBCu6 line (one of the longest of its kind in the U.S.), and the Digital Factory Suite
• Machvision: Installed the 4.0Pro AFVI system for optical inspection

When it comes to designing and building a new greenfield facility, these are some of the industry’s heaviest hitters, and stellar examples of what a true customer/supplier partnership can look like.

Additionally, columnist Don Ball of Chemcut uses real-world examples to discuss strategy and growth, echoing some of Dr. Schweitzer's wisdom. Among Don’s takeaways is the wise counsel that innovation and success often involve “sticking with your core business” and that some of the most important and enduring lessons in businesses are the ones you learn early on. 

MKS’ Atotech elaborates on the technology and benefits of its Uniplate PLBCu6 line. Kurt Palmer of Schmoll America discusses precision depth routing and the need for both machine robustness and a high level of measurement and control capability to achieve what is needed for miniaturized designs, rigid-flex boards, those with cavities, and high-power PCBs with heat sinks. 

Michael Carano explores the causes and prevention of small hole voids, especially as they relate to high-density builds. Shane Whiteside of PCBAA and Summit Interconnect brings us up to date on U.S. policy related to manufacturing, investment incentives, driving supply back onshore, and whether there exists a federal budget to support these efforts. 

Summer is winding down, but take heart, the latest issue of PCB007 Magazine will keep you ready for what comes next. Enjoy!

This column originally appeared in the August 2025 issue of PCB007 Magazine.