It’s Only Common Sense: Customers Capabilities—and Confidence
Marcy’s Musings: Operating Without a Rulebook
Beyond the Board: How a Diminished Supplier Base Affects Complex PCB Manufacturing Readiness in Defense
Dan Feinberg on Walt Custer: Remembering an Extraordinary Business Associate and Friend
September 9, 2025 | Dan Feinberg, Technology Editor, I-Connect007Estimated reading time: 1 minute
The passing of Walt Custer marks the end of an era for all those who knew him and were helped and impressed by his presence, both personally and professionally. Walt's life was characterized by his unwavering commitment to the industry, his profound wisdom and willingness to share it, and his infectious enthusiasm for everything he did.
Throughout his involvement in the electronics industry, Walt was known as a visionary, a walking database, a mentor to countless individuals, and a steadfast friend. Whether in the workplace or among associates, competitors, or friends, his commitment to excellence and generosity of spirit set him apart. He had a unique ability to bring people together—always with warmth and respect—and created lasting bonds and a sense of community.
His Personal Qualities and Achievements Live On
Walt's dedication was reflected not just in his professional accomplishments but also in the way he shared what he learned. He approached challenges with positivity, inspired those around him to reach higher, and led by example. His industry knowledge and the data he collected were often shared, not only in conversations but also in the countless valuable presentations at industry events.
An Enduring Legacy
Walt’s legacy lives on through the many lives he influenced and the memories he leaves behind. His contributions, both large and small, have shaped the future for so many individuals and companies. To honor Walt is to continue his traditions of kindness, curiosity, and generosity in sharing. As I mourn his passing, I hope we can celebrate the remarkable life he lived and his enduring impact.
I extend my deepest sympathies to his family and friends. May his memory and achievements be a blessing, and may we always remember the success he helped bring into our lives.
Share on:
Testimonial
"Your magazines are a great platform for people to exchange knowledge. Thank you for the work that you do."
Simon Khesin - Schmoll MaschinenSuggested Items
Global Electronics Association Expands Free Member Training Library with New Safety and Ergonomics Courses
04/23/2026 | Global Electronics AssociationThe Global Electronics Association today announced three new complimentary courses in safety and ergonomics, expanding its member training library to help manufacturers onboard workers faster and improve production performance.
A Mic, a Tiny Cam, and the Show Floor: The Story Behind 'Take the Mic!'
04/23/2026 | I-Connect007 Editorial TeamI-Connect007’s Take the Mic! program at APEX EXPO 2026 in Anaheim is proving to be a must-watch feature for this year’s event coverage, as we invited company representatives to participate in a sponsored conversation about their businesses and products in a whole new way: in front of a camera at their booths. While our managing editors and guest editors were conducting slightly longer Real Time With… APEX EXPO interviews in our booth, three staff members and guests acted as roaming reporters, conducting short, prearranged interviews with several companies exhibiting on the show floor.
Institute of Circuit Technology Spring Seminar 2026: A Bright Future in Europe
04/23/2026 | Pete Starkey, I-Connect007Through the leafy lanes and spring flowers of Warwickshire and back to Meridan, the traditional centre of England, and now officially part of the Metropolitan Borough of Solihull in the county of the West Midlands, I attended the Annual General Meeting and Spring Seminar of the Institute of Circuit Technology (ICT) on April 14. Out of the AGM came notable changes in leadership at the top of the Institute: the retirement of Mat Beadel as chair and Emma Hudson as technical director. Effective May 1, Steve Driver is the new chair, and Alun Morgan is the new technical director.
Standardization, Workforce, and the Road Ahead for Flex–Packaging Integration, Part 3
04/22/2026 | Anaya Vardya, American Standard CircuitsParts 1 and 2 of this series established the technical foundation and application landscape for the convergence of flexible PCBs and advanced semiconductor packaging. Part 3 addresses what comes next: the standards frameworks, talent pipelines, and strategic imperatives that will determine whether the industry can scale this convergence reliably and competitively.
New Guidance Targets Scope 3.1 Emissions Gap in Electronics Supply Chains
04/22/2026 | I-Connect007 Editorial TeamA new industry guidance document aimed at improving how electronics companies account for Scope 3 Category 1 (Scope 3.1) emissions marks a significant step toward more consistent and effective supply chain decarbonization. A recent webinar hosted by the Global Electronics Association and the Responsible Business Alliance (RBA) addressed a persistent challenge: Despite the material impact of Scope 3.1 emissions, fewer than half of electronics companies currently report them.