SMT Perspectives & Prospects: Artificial Intelligence, Part 7—Data Module 2
Learning with Leo: Why Risk-based Auditing Is Reshaping Cable Assembly Quality
Nolan’s Notes: Wire Harness—The Underdog of the Industry
From Classroom to Boardroom: One Year Yields a World of Perspective
March 15, 2026 | Marcy LaRont, I-Connect007Estimated reading time: 1 minute
Few college seniors can say their first plane ride took them straight into a global electronics boardroom. However, Emily Daley, a Michigan Technological University electrical engineering student, spent her senior year as the Student Board Member to the Global Electronics Association Board of Directors. She brought a fresh, student-centered perspective to the industry as she attended APEX EXPO, as well as board meetings in Taiwan and Lake Tahoe.
Now, as Emily prepares to graduate and end her tenure as the Student Board Member, she reflects on a year of growth, global travel, and having a seat at the table.
Marcy LaRont: Emily, you'll be handing your scepter over to the next Student Board Member at APEX EXPO next month. What did you most enjoy about the event last year?
Emily Daley: I liked the networking portion best. It was really cool to hear the insights and perspectives of so many different individuals. You don’t often get to be around so many people who are genuinely excited to be in one place. Everyone seemed happy to be there.
LaRont: What did you think when you first found out you were selected to be on the board?
Daley: When I applied for the position, I figured I'd probably never get it. When it was offered to me, I was like, “Holy cow!” I didn’t know what to think. I was a bit intimidated. It felt like I was going into something so huge. But overall, it has been a really great experience, and I wouldn't change anything.
LaRont: Tell me about the experience itself. What has been your role in the meetings and how were you expected to participate?
To continue reading this interview, which originally appeared in the February 2026 edition of SMT007 Magazine, click here.
Share on:
Testimonial
"We’re proud to call I-Connect007 a trusted partner. Their innovative approach and industry insight made our podcast collaboration a success by connecting us with the right audience and delivering real results."
Julia McCaffrey - NCAB GroupSuggested Items
The Next Generation of Leadership: New Student Board Member Aubrey Smith
04/10/2026 | Marcy LaRont, I-Connect007At APEX EXPO 2026, the next generation of industry leadership was on full display with the introduction of Aubrey Smith, the Global Electronics Association’s newest Student Board Member. She’s a third-year electrical and electronics engineering student at the University of Georgia and a first-year participant in the Emerging Engineer Program. Aubrey represents the curiosity, initiative, and openness that define tomorrow’s innovators.
Future-proof Laser Depaneling for PCBs with Photonics
04/10/2026 | Real Time with... APEX EXPOBill Solari of Photonics Systems USA outlines the advantages of laser depaneling for circuit board manufacturing. We learn that this advanced technology addresses rising material costs by increasing panel yield and improving edge quality. This process provides precision, suitability for medical applications, and cost-saving benefits, including the elimination of cleaning steps. There have been significant advancements in laser depaneling, offering a competitive and efficient solution for modern electronics production.
Technica USA and DCT Partnership Insights
04/10/2026 | Real Time with... APEX EXPOThis discussion features Jason Perry from Technica and David Bures from DCT Cleaning, highlighting Technica's expansion in PCB fabrication and assembly. DCT, a leader in cleaning solutions, emphasizes the renewed importance of cleaning in modern electronics due to miniaturization. Comprehensive offerings and an innovative approach to achieving optimal cleanliness is revealed.
From Panels to Post-its
04/07/2026 | Lorena Villanueva, Global Electronics Association MexicoLast January, I attended the Global Leadership Summit of the Wire Harness Manufacturer’s Association (WHMA) in Las Vegas, and there was a subtle shift in one of the events that everyone could feel. We still had the traditional conference rhythm: strong keynote, well-prepared panels, and smart people in the room. There were also, sometimes, some careful answers—useful, but not always candid. So, I was curious when WHMA introduced a new peer-to-peer format for one session.
Global Electronics Association Announces New Board Members at APEX EXPO 2026
04/07/2026 | Global Electronics AssociationAt the 69th Global Electronics Association Annual Meeting on March 17, held in conjunction with APEX EXPO 2026, the Association’s Board of Directors announced new officers and first-term members. Board officers serve a two-year term; board members serve a three-year term, and the student board member serves a one-year term.