I-Connect007 Editor’s Choice: Five Must-Reads for the Week

Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

I was in Chicago this week, where the weather went from sunny and 45° F on the day I arrived to snow and ice by the next morning. As a California/Arizona native, let’s just say I love the look of snow much more than I love driving in it.  Still, I am grateful to have been part of some genuinely fun teambuilding with my colleagues at the Global Electronics Association.

My must-reads for this week are a diverse grouping of articles and columns, ranging from printed electronics and additive manufacturing to a comprehensive overview of the European EMS and PCB markets to marketing wisdom and, finally, a book to help you reach your full potential, personally and professionally.

Powering the Future: The Materials That Make Tomorrow Possible
Published January 14

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: If there is one area in electronics manufacturing more important than others, it’s materials science, especially as it relates to thermal management at very high temperatures—at or over 200° C. Brian Buyea of Remtec begins his new column, “At Remtec, we live in the intersection where science meets manufacturability.” Isn’t that true for all of us in hardware manufacturing? What’s next and what’s possible? Read on to find out.

Implementing Inkjet Solder Mask: A Customer Success Story
Published January 13

Paoli Dinelli of KLA outlines through a case study the challenges endemic in traditional liquid photoimageable solder mask, which includes the time it takes for multiple process steps and the inherent product waste, not to mention the quality issues that normally arise from overflow into holes and mask misalignments. Through this case example, she explains how moving to digital inkjet solder mask solved important problems.

Confronting an Era of Transformation in Europe
Published January 13

By all accounts, 2025 was tough for PCB and EMS manufacturing in Europe. Though there are many parallels with bringing domestic manufacturing capability and capacity back to the United States, Europe is comprised of completely separate and sovereign governments that must all align in mission and purpose. But Europe is resolute in its commitment to environmental sustainability and seemingly united in its recognition for the need for greater autonomy around military, defense, and critical systems electronics. This is a worthy read.

The Marketing Minute: Same Trade Show, Stronger Story
Published January 14

Even as marketing budgets shrink during challenging economic times and uncertainty (as remains the case for many in 2026), trade shows remain an important part of most manufacturing companies’ marketing and sales strategies. In her column this week, Brittany Martin asks, “Is using the same trade show strategy working for you?” and posits that, “today, visibility extends well beyond the booth.” She is right. Be more intentional about maximizing your opportunities when attending trade shows. Make them count and let us help you extend your visibility beyond the booth.

Dan’s Biz Bookshelf: ‘Super Performance: 8 Strategies to Reach Full Potential’
Published January 15

Let’s face it. There is never enough time to read all the business books out there, so I appreciate Dan Beaulieu’s book reviews. He helps me prioritize my reading (or listening) list. This latest review is described as a roadmap, with a step-by-step, practical guide to enhance your business performance. I am intrigued. Who doesn’t want to reach their full workplace potential? As Dan says, "The genuine test of any business book is whether it makes you do something different tomorrow.” I’m ready to take up the challenge. How about you?