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From growing up surrounded by laminates to leading one of the industry’s premier equipment suppliers, Driving Innovation columnist Kurt Palmer’s career has come full circle. In this feature, he shares lessons learned from building a family business, his passion for customer commitment, and why adaptability, optimism, and strong relationships remain the keys to thriving in an ever-evolving PCB landscape.
Marcy LaRont: Kurt, tell us about yourself. Where were you born and raised? What is a favorite childhood memory you would like to share?
Kurt Palmer: I was born in LaCrosse, Wisconsin. My dad was an executive at Norplex Laminates (now part of Isola Laminate Systems), and they had a plant there. I remember the distinct smell of phenolic on my dad’s clothes every night, although I didn't realize it was epoxy at the time.
Being raised in Wisconsin, I developed a strong allegiance to the Packers and Brewers that is stronger than ever today. At age 6, I was also introduced to the sport of golf and have been playing it ever since. Some of my best memories of golf were not playing itself, but looking for golf balls in the woods, then selling them to golfers on the 17th tee. A ball in great condition could get me enough money for a candy bar.
Where did you attend school and what did you study?
I received my undergraduate degree at the University of South Florida, where I also met my wife. I majored in chemistry, but never really used the degree, even though I've been in the PCB industry my entire life. Later, I received my MBA with a concentration in international business from Lake Forest (Illinois) Graduate School of Management. I chose this concentration because I was increasingly working with Asian partners to supply consumable products to the industry. I wanted to understand the nuances of Asian vs. North American business practices.
To continue reading this interview which originally appeared in the November 2025 edition of PCB007 Magazine, click here.
