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

I’ve spent my week recovering from a busy and interesting week in Anaheim for the 25th IPC APEX EXPO. I think back to my first APEX EXPO, and the changes since then are too numerous to count. I first attended in 2004, also in Anaheim, back when there was almost no design content in the conference or expo portions of the show. It was just a few years after the downturn, and attendees and exhibitors alike were skittish, almost afraid to show confidence in our industry. A few unemployed design friends handed out copies of their resumes. Travel budgets were still down, and the aisles weren’t exactly packed with traffic.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: MKS' Atotech—Leading Innovations in Semiconductor Solutions

In this interview, Marcy LaRont speaks with Kuldip Johal, CTO, MKS’ Atotech. Based in Boston, MKS operates in vacuum solutions, photonics, and specifically for the Atotech division, material solutions.  MKS significantly impacts the semiconductor industry, supplying components for up to 85% of global semiconductor tools and covers processes and materials for 70% of PCB manufacturing steps.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Exploring Burkle's Innovations at IPC APEX EXPO 2025

Burkle North America's Andy Turner shares insights from the show, highlighting the excitement surrounding the event and Burkle North America's growth potential. He invited attendees to their booth to interact with the InfoCube, a cutting-edge touchscreen showcasing Burkle's diverse product offerings.

25 Years of IPC APEX EXPO: Organizer Alicia Balonek Reflects on a Milestone

As I celebrate my 25th work anniversary with IPC, I can’t help but reflect on my incredible journey. From its inception in 2000, IPC APEX EXPO has evolved into one of the most anticipated and dynamic events in the electronics industry, and I’m proud to have been a part of its growth every step of the way.

The Rising Term Premium: A Closer Look at the Implications of a Decade-high Surge

In recent months, financial markets have grappled with various conflicting signals, trying to reconcile strong economic performance with persistent uncertainties. While the U.S. economy appears robust and recession risks over the next 12 months have diminished significantly, several factors continue to drive an uncertain outlook.

Electroninks' MOD and iSAP Game Changers

Electroninks, a prominent player in particle-free conductive inks, recently announced an exciting new range of metal-complex inks for ultra high density interconnect (UHDI) technology. At the SMTA UHDI Symposium in January, Mike Vinson, COO of Electroninks, gave a presentation on this line of MOD inks, which are versatile and suitable for a range of applications that require ultra-dense, miniaturized, and high-frequency technology. Mike says his technology is a game changer and will revolutionize UHDI circuit fabrication. 

Breaking Down Barriers: Key Insights from John Mitchell’s Keynote

At the core of IPC President and CEO John Mitchell’s keynote at IPC APEX EXPO on March 19, 2025, was a compelling message: electronics drive innovation, but true progress is powered by collaboration. In delivering his keynote, Mitchell challenged industry leaders in attendance with a crucial question, “How can we strike a balance between the growing push for protectionism and the undeniable need for global cooperation?”

IPC Community Unveils Spring 2025 Issue: A Celebration of Innovation and Excellence

Spring is in the air, and so is the latest issue of IPC Community. From roadsters in southern California to automotive standards in China, a focus on Germany’s largest electronics manufacturer, and interviews with some of today’s industry influencers, this issue rounds the bend into a world of innovation, leadership, and community.

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

IPC APEX EXPO has wrapped up another successful year, and the 25th anniversary proved to be another great event with record attendance, a robust technical conference, and interesting professional development tracks. In addition, dozens of standards development committees were in session, and we look forward to what comes of those. Can we get some virtual applause for our 100% volunteer standards committee members?

Gold as a Key Component in PCBs and IC Substrates

Gold has long been a cornerstone in the electronics industry, particularly in the surface finishing of PCBs and IC substrates. It provides essential surface protection while enabling various assembling techniques, such as soldering connections and wire bonding, using aluminum, gold, or copper wires.

Paige Fiet: From Emerging Engineer to Quality at TTM

Paige Fiet is a graduate of the IPC Emerging Engineer program and now works at TTM Technologies in Logan, Utah. She was an IPC Student Board Member and has been a columnist for I-Connect007. She is a stellar example and an encouragement to other young engineers about how to be successful in your early career.

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

Inside the industry, it feels like we’re getting ready for a big party holiday, and I’m feeling the whole Mardi Gras vibe. This weekend, IPC APEX EXPO kicks off with standards development committees and the Technical Conference before the Expo starts on March 18. We’ll be sneaking out of our network of evil lairs scattered around North America and convening at the I-Connect007 booth in the middle of the Anaheim Convention Center. Be sure to stop by and say hello.

IPC Hall of Fame Spotlight Series: Highlighting Denny Fritz

This month, the Hall of Fame spotlight features Denny Fritz, a long-time friend and associate of mine. Denny first got involved with IPC in 1978 while working with MacDermid. His first efforts were with the various board fabrication committees, something he believes helped lead to his eventual Hall of Fame award.

Paige Fiet: From Emerging Engineer to Quality at TTM

Paige Fiet is a graduate of the IPC Emerging Engineer program and now works at TTM Technologies in Logan, Utah. She was an IPC Student Board Member and has been a columnist for I-Connect007. She is a stellar example and an encouragement to other young engineers about how to be successful in your early career.

ICT Spring Seminar: Nickel Not Welcome Here

After a miserable, dull, and damp English winter, a really pleasant nearly spring day with the sun shining and daffodils in bloom greeted delegates to the Institute of Circuit Technology Spring Seminar at Puckrup Hall near Tewkesbury, March 5, in Gloucestershire, UK.

Hannah Nelson: The Inspiring Journey of an Emerging Engineer

At last year’s IPC APEX EXPO, former IPC Emerging Engineer Hannah Nelson had the opportunity to reflect on her inspiring journey into the world of engineering, from her education at Valparaiso University to her internship and her first job at Texas Instruments. From pivotal moments and the unexpected turns that helped shape her early career and passion for electrical engineering, her story highlights the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, taking opportunities that arise early on, finding confidence in one's voice, and the rewards of pursuing one's passions within the engineering field.

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

It’s been a busy week. My must-reads include articles and news items on global trends and challenges, groundbreaking technology, the hunt for the elusive young PCB designers, and some personnel changes. We also have a great column on the value of following up and keeping promises. We’re all guilty of “dropping the ball” from time to time, aren’t we?

Imagine the Possibilities: Tech Conference 2025

As we approach the 25th anniversary of IPC APEX EXPO, excitement buzzes around the annual Technical Program. Coming off a tremendously successful program in 2024—co-hosted with ECWC16 and with a significant global presence—organizers wanted to match that same level of engagement. In this interview, Stan Rak of SF Rak Company and Udo Welzel of Robert Bosch Mobility Electronics, co-chairs of the Technical Program Committee (TPC), highlight efforts of the volunteer committee to bring another quality technical program to life.

Empowering Women in Electronics: An Evening of Connection and Inspiration

The Women in Electronics Reception at IPC APEX EXPO on Tuesday, March 19, from 6–7:30 p.m., promises to be an evening of inspiration, camaraderie, and empowerment. With the theme “Eagerly Empowering Worn-Out Professionals with Humor, Hindsight, and Hallelujahs,” the event aims to rejuvenate and energize professionals in the electronics industry, a sector where women are underrepresented yet make invaluable contributions.

Real Time with… IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Technica’s Exciting Plans for 2025

Technica is celebrating 40 years as a supplier and distributor to the PCB and assembly industries. In this interview, Jason Perry discusses the company's busy preparations for this year’s show.

Real Time with… IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Schmoll America Showcasing Four Advanced Machines

In an expansive booth, Schmoll America is showcasing three advanced Schmoll machines and one from Impex, its partner company. Kurt emphasizes Schmoll's commitment to growth and excellence as Schmoll America approaches its first anniversary. Stop by booth 4123 to see the action.

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

As the U.S. grapples with the short-term fallout of DOGE and what it could mean for existing programs, unemployment, and the U.S. domestic economy, in the private sector of electronics manufacturing, we could be facing higher costs from tariffs and potential supply chain disruptions as we hopefully capitalize on new opportunities. Here are the top five must-read items from this past week's electronic manufacturing news and information.

IPC APEX EXPO 2025 Preview: An Overview of the Keynote Presentations

Don't miss Kevin Surace's keynote speech at IPC APEX EXPO. Discover where artificial intelligence stands today, where it's headed, and how you can participate. Witness robots and algorithms achieving real-world success and learn about the processes that can transform your company starting now—nothing to fear, it's just math.

Growth and Innovation at FCT

During DesignCon, I met with Tony Plemel, senior applications engineer at Flexible Circuit Technologies (FCT), to discusses the company’s growth and expansion opportunities, including its expansion of its inTFlex EMS facility. In this interview, Tony explains how FCT’s commitment to customer service and focus on communication and responsiveness allow the company to leverage its capabilities for continued expansion.

Real Time with... IPC APEX EXPO 2025: Insights from Andy Turner of Burkle North America

With the upcoming IPC APEX EXPO 2025, Andy Turner, from Burkle North America, introduces the InfoCube, a cutting-edge display designed to showcase Burkle's diverse product offerings, including a glimpse into the inner workings of their machines.
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