Latest Articles

Finding Your Marketing Niche in a Crowded PCB Industry

I recently made a flippant comment on LinkedIn, “All marketing and no trousers,” hinting that marketing campaigns often do not have a tangible product to market and the campaign is marketing a concept or a gut feeling. For PCB and IC substrate manufacturers, this poses a great risk for unsuccessful campaigns and the opportunity to innovate in an increasingly competitive and global landscape.

The Power of Apprenticeship: Connecting Talent, Training, and Opportunity

The lack of a skilled workforce looms large over the electronics manufacturing industry, but the Global Electronics Association is building a powerful solution through an apprenticeship program that has evolved into a nationally recognized, well-funded workforce engine. Cory Blaylock and Vicki Hawkins are cutting through red tape with the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) to access millions of dollars in funding, and their collaboration with industry companies, creative problem solving, and commitment to success is helping address this great challenge and shape the next-gen electronics workforce.

Learning Lounge Returns, Better than Ever

When we introduced the Learning Lounge at APEX EXPO 2025, it was an experiment born from necessity and creativity. This year, it returns as a proven destination for anyone seeking practical knowledge, industry insights, and expert-led discussions right on the show floor. The Learning Lounge concept emerged in October 2024 when I approached Alicia Balonek, senior director of events, about creating a dedicated space for sessions focused on education, training, workforce development, and technical challenges.

Safety First: ADAS, Connectivity, and Interfaces on the Road to Reliability

EVs function as intelligent, software-centric platforms where safety, connectivity, and user experiences are deeply intertwined. Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), vehicle connectivity architectures, and digital driver interfaces now play a central role in both vehicle operation and customer perception. EVs provide synergies for ADAS and connectivity because their strong electrical base provides a natural framework for integrating the advanced sensors, telematics, and high-reliability control units required for ADAS and connected systems.

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

This week, I’m highlighting a book, a podcast, a magazine, winners of the APEX EXPO Technical Conference, and a narrative-style column. Not only do these published pieces vary in style, but they also examine the electronics industry from a variety of perspectives. From test to materials, trade show storytelling, and thought leadership, I-Connect007 has the industry covered.

New Book Explores How UV Technology Is Transforming Electronics Protection, Efficiency, and Sustainability

I-Connect007 announces the release of The Printed Circuit Designer’s Guide to…™ UV Curable Conformal Coatings. Authored by respected industry technologists Brian Chislea and Cody Schoener, PhD, of Dow, Inc., this new book offers a comprehensive exploration of UV-curable conformal coatings and their expanding role in improving the protection, performance, and sustainability of electronic assemblies.

Professional Development Courses for Every Electronics Manufacturing Sector

Professional Development Courses at APEX EXPO are designed to give electronics professionals focused, instructor-led learning that connects directly to today’s manufacturing realities. The courses are offered Sunday, Monday, and Thursday, and allow attendees to build new skills while still taking part in the broader APEX EXPO experience.

India and Southeast Asia: Strengthening Global Electronics Manufacturing Through Skills, Standards, and Collaboration

As the global electronics industry convenes at APEX EXPO 2026, the India and Southeast Asia region stands out as one of the most active and strategically important contributors to the global electronics ecosystem. Rapid manufacturing expansion, sustained workforce development, and growing alignment with global standards are reshaping how the region engages with international supply chains. For the Global Electronics Association, APEX EXPO provides an important platform to reflect on recent progress across India and Southeast Asia and to advance collaboration with global industry stakeholders.

Real Time with... APEX EXPO 2026: Technology Advancements and Partnership Growth with Technica

Jason Perry, president of Technica, U.S.A., discusses the company's significant advancements. This interview covers Technica's integration into EMC Group, growth in their PCB and PCBA business, and new national distributor partnerships. Jason also highlights upcoming technical demo days focusing on emerging technologies and AI.

Finding the Funny: Jan McInnis Headlines Women in Electronics Keynote

In an industry driven by precision, deadlines, and innovation, laughter may not be the first tool professionals think to reach for, yet it’s one that can transform workplace culture, elevate collaboration, and boost personal well-being. Jan McInnis, comedian and humor strategist, presents “Finding the Funny” for the Women in Electronics Keynote, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. March 18, at APEX EXPO.

East Asia at APEX EXPO 2026: Focusing on Cross-regional Exchange and Industry Connectivity

At APEX EXPO 2026, the Global Electronics Association East Asia team will promote engagement with global experts, industry partners, and member companies by participating in technical committee meetings and industry forums, and by organizing networking dinners and exhibitor visits. More than 40 companies from East Asia are expected to exhibit at this year’s show, representing Mainland China, Taiwan Region, Japan, and Korea.

Mexico at APEX EXPO 2026: Building the Future Together, One State at a Time

As the electronics industry gets ready for APEX EXPO 2026 in Anaheim, Mexico returns with something very important to say: we are building the future of electronics together—across regions, industries, and borders. This will be the second year in a row that Mexico participates with an organized Mexico Pavilion, coordinated by Global Electronics Association Mexico. What started in 2025 as a historic first step is now becoming a sustained national effort, bringing Mexican states, companies, and institutions to the global stage with one shared vision.

Dan Feinberg: From Ham Radio to Hall of Fame Stories

For more than two decades, Dan Feinberg has helped shape PCB007 as a columnist, technical editor, and trusted industry voice. In this interview, Dan reflects on a lifetime in electronics—from ham radio and rock bands to PCB innovation, executive leadership, and consulting—revealing the experiences that fueled his career and his enduring passion for the industry.

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

It’s time for my five must-reads featured this past week. The global economy is still reeling from last Friday’s U.S. Supreme Court ruling that most tariffs imposed under IEEPA by President Trump are unconstitutional. In other news, with APEX EXPO just two weeks away, we're featuring the first three Real Time with... pre-show sponsor interviews: Remtec, Burkle North America, and KYZEN. These are insightful and forward-thinking interviews about what you can expect to see at the show this year. Please check them out!

After IEEPA: What Electronics Companies Should Know About Tariff Refund Strategies and Section 122

The U.S. Supreme Court’s recent decision striking down tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) opens the door to potential refunds for electronics companies and signals a rapid pivot to alternative trade statutes, setting the stage for a volatile 150-day period that could significantly affect global electronics supply chains. Trade and electronics industry leaders gathered for a webinar hosted by the Global Electronics Association on Feb. 24 to learn more about the landmark U.S. Supreme Court decision.

Technology Pavilion Debuts at APEX EXPO 2026

Many of the technologies shaping the future of electronics manufacturing, particularly in areas such as 3D integration, digital manufacturing, advanced design workflows and automated metrology, are moving faster than traditional publication and standards cycles. The APEX EXPO 2026 Technology Pavilion will bring technology innovators such as these to the forefront, through a dedicated space where emerging tools, approaches, and early-stage breakthroughs can be shared with attendees.

Growing an Engineer: Meet Emerging Engineer Julian Vega

Julian Vega started as a 17-year-old intern who rose to planning supervisor at Summit Interconnect in just seven years, and credits the Global Electronics Association’s Emerging Engineer program for fueling his passion and accelerating his career journey. In this interview, Julian shares how the program expanded his technical perspective, connected him with industry leaders, and helped shape his vision for the future.

Real Time with... APEX EXPO 2026: Remtec Expands Microelectronics Assembly

Julio Castillo and Chris Dougherty from Remtec discuss their expanded capabilities in microelectronic assembly, including chip and wire and multi-chip module component attachment. They highlight their expertise in ceramic substrates for high-reliability, high-power, and harsh environment applications, offering integrated solutions.

Big Ideas Take the Stage: APEX EXPO 2026 Keynotes

Some of the most consequential conversations in electronics manufacturing will take center stage at APEX EXPO 2026, with a keynote lineup that spans quantum computing, advanced packaging, artificial intelligence, and the global electronics economy. From IBM and Intel technologists to an AI futurist and a global industry leader, this year’s keynote speakers will offer attendees both technical depth and strategic perspective on the forces reshaping the electronics ecosystem.

I-Connect007 Launches Six-Part Podcast Series Highlighting the Critical Role of PCB Materials

I-Connect007, the leading media source for the electronics manufacturing industry, today announced the release of the first episode in a new six-part podcast series, “PCB Materials: The Backbone and Future of Electronics.”

Real Time with... APEX EXPO 2026: Exploring PCB Fabrication and Industry 4.0 Innovations with Burkle

Nolan Johnson speaks with Andy Turner, CEO of Burkle North America, about PCB fabrication and pressing technologies. They discuss the significance of Industry 4.0, focusing on machine integration and data collection for improved manufacturing efficiency. The conversation covers Burkle's adoption of the Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture (OPC UA) protocol for better data sharing and the role of AI and automation in enhancing processes and customer interactions.

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

Frankly, there were so many worthy news items this week, it quite a bit of whittling to get it down to my five must-reads. For example, this week we showcased Schweitzer Engineering Labs’ new manufacturing facility in Moscow, Idaho. Marcy LaRont launched an On the Line With… podcast on materials, and the February issue of I-Connect007 Magazine features the annual APEX EXPO preview.

New IPC Standards Released

Each quarter, the Global Electronics Association releases a list of standards that are new or have been updated. To view a complete list of newly published standards and standards revisions, translations, proposed standards for ballot, final drafts for industry review, working drafts, and project approvals, visit electronics.org/ipc-standards. These are the latest releases for Q1 2026.         

Changing the Electronics Systems Conversation

Rebranding as the Global Electronics Association is not the only major change happening at APEX EXPO this year. There’s also a shift in the scope of the technical program as heterogenous integration and other advanced packaging methodologies come into the mainstream at both the component and system levels. We spoke with Matt Kelly, CTO and conference general chair, Devan Iyer, chief strategist for advanced electronic packaging, and Stan Rak and Udo Welzel, now in their fourth year as chairs of the Technical Program Committee, about what distinguishes the conference this year.

IPC Standards: The Heart of the Electronics Industry

From its very inception, standards development has been at the core of the Global Electronics Association’s work, and APEX EXPO continues to serve as a major venue for standards development and approval. For example, standards committees from around the globe are expected to conduct more than 100 task group meetings during the event. We visited with the Association’s standards development team to learn more about their process, its impact on the industry, and how you can get your voice heard.
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