Key Summary
The Global Electronics Association’s Emerging Engineer Program, launched in 2016, addresses the growing skills gap in electronics manufacturing.
The program connects early-career engineers with experienced IPC standards committee mentors to transfer critical industry knowledge.
Participation strengthens understanding of IPC standards, compliance, reliability, and best practices across design and manufacturing.
Companies benefit through stronger representation in standards development and improved product quality and innovation.
Mentorship ensures long-term sustainability of industry leadership and technical excellence.
By Debbie McDade, Advanced Rework Technology Ltd.
An ongoing challenge seen in every sector within the electronics industry is that production engineers, quality engineers, and process engineers are leaving the industry, taking their knowledge with them.
With today’s concerns around sustainability, chip shortages, reliability, and a possible skills shortage, the Global Electronics Association and dedicated industry mentors are bridging the knowledge gap through the Emerging Engineer Program.
I previously wrote the Community magazine article (Standard of Friendship) where I discussed that Symon Franklin of Custom Interconnect Ltd (UK) and I were the unofficial founders of the Emerging Engineer Program, having mentored him through IPC Committee Leadership to the award-winning committee leader he is. We like to think that the result of our working relationship paved the way for today’s official IPC Emerging Engineer program..
Originated in 2016, this program established a path for those new to the industry with a valuable opportunity. They could work with and learn from dedicated and knowledgeable individuals who volunteer their time across IPC committees, from design to box build and enclosures, and every part of the PCB and assembly in between.
I am proud that I was approached to serve as an official mentor in this great program, helping equip the Emerging Engineers with the skills and understanding to maintain standards and training development long after current mentors have left the industry.
I felt a strong sense of pride as a mentor, particularly when I reflected on my 30 years in the industry, including nearly 25 years of IPC committee involvement, culminating in my first Emerging Engineer graduating from the programme in 2024.
I could preach about the importance of sharing knowledge with the next generation of industry leaders, but I felt it would be more effective to hear directly from my 2024 Emerging Engineer graduate.
I approached David Caputa, an Electro-Mechanical Senior Engineer at Lockheed Martin, to ask why he and his company felt that participating in IPC Standards Committees, especially the Emerging Engineer Program, would benefit him, his company, and the industry.
David, can you explain why your company made the initial investment in sending you to Association events, particularly IPC committee meetings?
My organization recognizes the significance of IPC standards in our product development and manufacturing processes, which is why they invest in my participation in Association events and committee meetings. By attending these events, I can represent our company’s interests and provide input on the development of standards that directly affect our business. This enables me to advocate for our specific needs and ensure our voice is heard in the standards development process, ultimately supporting our company’s goals and objectives.
Does your company still see value in your meeting attendance?
Our company remains committed to my involvement in IPC meetings, as it is essential to our ongoing efforts to drive innovation and excellence in our product development. By participating in the development of IPC standards, we can tap into the knowledge and expertise of the industry’s leading experts, ensuring that our products are designed and manufactured to the highest standards of quality, reliability, and performance.
As I asked Symon in my previous article, does being a committee member give you a better understanding of the IPC documents and standards?
Serving as a committee member has significantly enhanced my understanding of IPC documents and standards, allowing me to develop a deeper understanding of the intricacies of these critical industry guidelines. Through my involvement in the development and revision of these documents, I have gained insight into the decision-making process and the rationale behind key provisions. Furthermore, my contributions to specific sections have enabled me to retain a clear understanding of how and why standards evolve, ensuring accurate and compliant application within our organisation.
How does this understanding benefit your day-to-day job role?
My in-depth understanding of IPC documents and standards gained through my committee membership has a direct and positive impact on my daily responsibilities. I apply this knowledge in practice, ensuring designs comply with industry standards and best practices. This also enables me to support colleagues by sharing guidance and insight, contributing to a more consistent and informed approach across the organisation.
Would you recommend the Emerging Engineer Program and committee membership to others?
I highly recommend both. The Emerging Engineer Program provides an immersive experience, offering insight into IPC’s structure and standards development processes while fostering valuable professional relationships. It is an excellent way to build knowledge, confidence, and a strong professional network.
Following his program completion, David had the following positive words to say about the Emerging Engineer initiative:
“Overall, I cannot speak highly enough about what an incredible program the EE program is. My time in the EE program was filled with opportunities to learn more about the industry and to network with subject matter experts. I found a lot of value in the program as it guided me through IPC’s committee structure and standards development process. Most of all, the EE program helped me to get comfortable with committee meetings as well as introduced me to the Association’s s staff. I am very grateful to have been a participant in the EE program, and I look forward to helping support the program in the future.”
When the time comes for me to leave the industry and my Association leadership roles, I am confident that the industry, and the standards that support it, will continue to thrive.
