Honeywell Aerospace Engineer Christina Rutherford to Deliver Keynote at Electrical Wire Processing Technology Expo (EWPTE)

Christina Rutherford, Advanced Materials & Process Engineer at Honeywell Aerospace Technologies, is set to take center stage at this year’s Electrical Wire Processing Technology Expo (EWPTE) May 14-16 at Baird Center in Milwaukee, Wis. as the keynote speaker. Rutherford will address industry professionals and enthusiasts in a keynote titled "Process Controls and their Impact to Supply Chains” on Wednesday, May 15. In her keynote speech, Rutherford will provide a deep dive into the critical role of process controls in shaping and enhancing supply chain dynamics, with a focus on the development and successful implementation of these controls.

As an award-winning engineer and a key contributor to IPC/WHMA-A-620 content development, Rutherford brings a unique perspective to the discussion. Her insights into the intricacies of cables and harnesses design, coupled with her expertise in technical supply chain management, make her the perfect guide to navigate the complexities of process controls.

Attendees can anticipate an engaging presentation that goes beyond theoretical concepts, as Rutherford will share practical examples and case studies that showcase the successful application of process controls in real-world scenarios. Through her keynote, Rutherford aims to empower professionals across industries with actionable insights that can be implemented to drive positive change in their respective supply chains.

“Rutherford's commitment to innovation and excellence, as demonstrated by her role in leading the adoption of new process development techniques at Honeywell Aerospace Technologies, sets the stage for a keynote address that promises to be both enlightening and impactful,” said David Bergman, WHMA executive director.

EWPTE provides a unique opportunity for industry professionals, enthusiasts, and aspiring engineers to connect with one of the industry's brightest minds. Christina Rutherford's keynote speech is expected to leave a lasting impression, inspiring attendees to explore new avenues for improving supply chain processes within their organizations.

More information about EWPTE, including details on educational opportunities networking, schedule, travel and more is available at electricalwireshow.com.

IPC Joins White House for CHIPS R&D & Workforce Event, Focus on Growing U.S. Tech and Talent

Feb 09, 2024

Today at the White House, leaders from the Departments of Commerce, Defense, and Energy; the National Science Foundation; and the National Center for the Advancement of Semiconductor Technology (NatCast) gathered for an event to announce more than $5 billion in expected investment in the CHIPS R&D program. The announcement includes hundreds of millions of dollars of expected investment in the semiconductor workforce and funding announcements in packaging, metrology, and a CHIPS Manufacturing USA Institute. It also formally establishes the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC) as a public-private consortium.

View NIST’s full press release here.

John Mitchell at White House
L to R: Meredith LaBeau, Chief Technology Officer at Calumet Electronics Corporation and member of the IPC Board of Directors; Deirdre Hanford, Chief Executive Officer of Natcast.org, the nonprofit operator of the National Semiconductor Technology Center (NSTC); and Dr. John W Mitchell, IPC president and CEO. 

 

IPC’s President and CEO, Dr. John W. Mitchell, participated in this commemorative signing, as well as a White House CHIPS R&D Roundtable that followed. This occasion marks a significant stride towards strengthening the nation's technological leadership. As we extend our heartfelt congratulations to NatCast and NSTC, we are excited to share the positive outcomes of this landmark event that promises to shape the future of the industry.

NatCast and NSTC are set to play pivotal roles in advancing semiconductor technology, fostering innovation, and bolstering the nation's tech leadership. NatCast will focus on pushing the boundaries of semiconductor technology, while NSTC will serve as a hub for collaborative research and development initiatives. We extend our congratulations to the teams behind NatCast and NSTC.

After the signing, John was asked to join the Director of the National Science Foundation, and leadership from the Departments of Labor and Commerce, along with panel of experts across industry, academia, and nonprofits to offer perspective on how the CHIPS R&D program can build the workforce needed to make the CHIPS investments successful. During the roundtable discussions, John shared pointed insights on behalf of the electronics manufacturing industry.

Highlights of John’s comments shared today:

  • We can’t solve the workforce problem for slices of the industry. Building a “semiconductor” workforce is an inherently flawed notion. We need a robust workforce from “silicon to systems.” 
  • Creating career pathways is key. IPC and industry partners have built career pathways via portable, stackable, industry-recognized credentialing. In an industry as marginalized by government as electronics, greater federal support is welcome. 
  • Real impact means scale and speed. For the CHIPS for America program to succeed, America will need hundreds of thousands more skilled workers in this decade, not just in chips but in related sectors as well. 

Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks remarked, “We [at the Pentagon] know that the research and development on semiconductors and microelectronics helps us to make sure that we can actually develop and manufacture at the cutting edge.”

Dr. Laurie E. Locascio, Under Secretary of Commerce and Head of the National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST), highlighted the strategic need to develop our workforce when she said, “We have to consider how we are going to develop the people who will take these jobs. We need to create programs to support the development of enough inventors and designers, and researchers, and developers, and engineers and technicians to meet the government needs and the needs of this growing and wonderful commercial sector. And we have to ensure that these investments build upon each other toward a strengthened ecosystem -- which is what we’re trying to achieve in the United States.”

Today was about marking a major milestone on the path to building a strong and resilient industry. It was also an opportunity to engage in substantive dialogue about how we can make real and lasting impact in solving the challenge of building the strong workforce needed to power and lead industry forward. IPC is honored to have had the opportunity to contribute to that discussion, and we look forward to continued partnership and collaboration.

IPC and the PCBAA Urge Congress to Fully Fund Printed Circuit Boards or Face Continuing National Security and Economic Risks

In a letter signed by 54 microelectronics executives, IPC, the global association for electronics manufacturing, and the Printed Circuit Board Association of America (PCBAA) are calling on Congress to fully fund the Defense Production Act Purchases Account at the House-passed level of $618 million and $1.08 billion for the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment program.

These funding sources are crucial to restore American leadership in the strategically vital printed circuit board (PCB) industry.  The United States currently produces only four percent of the world’s supply compared to 30 percent at the turn of the century. PCBs are central to all electronics across all industries including defense, healthcare, telecommunications, aviation, and automotive.

The semiconductors funded by the CHIPS and Science Act gain functionality through their placement on PCBs. As chips have increased in sophistication, so too have the PCBs upon which they are placed. U.S. armed forces depend on PCBs found in everything from night vision goggles and drones to avionics and satellites.

“Semiconductor chips are powerful examples of modern innovation, but they require an electronic system to operate,” said John W. Mitchell, IPC president and CEO. “Chips have no functionality until they are packaged and placed on PCBs by electronics manufacturers who assemble systems. IPC and our member companies urge Congress to reinvigorate a domestic PCB industry that is critical to U.S. industrial resiliency, economic competitiveness, and national security. ”

“America’s leadership in microelectronics has implications for our national and economic security,” said PCBAA Chairman Travis Kelly, “As they did with the CHIPS Act, Congress must invest in American printed circuit boards.”

For years, experts inside and outside of government have warned that the Department of Defense’s (DOD’s) reliance on a long and vulnerable supply chain creates unacceptable risk.

  • 2017: The Department of Commerce Bureau of Industry and Security issued a warning to DOD regarding the health of the PCB industry
  • 2018: The White House recommended that the DOD expand direct investment in the lower tier of the industrial base.
  • 2022: The Departments of Commerce and Homeland Security warned of serious risks because of the lack of PCB manufacturing and recommended investment incentives and funding of Title III of the Defense Production Act.
  • 2023: The House Select Committee on the United States Competition with the Chinese Communist Party recommended financial assistance programs for American PCB manufacturing and research. This was the first of 150 recommendations in their report.
  • 2024: The Department of Defense named microelectronics as a key area of risk for the defense industrial base.

View full text of the letter.

Electronics Manufacturers Anticipate Revenue Growth Increase of 9.5 Percent in 2024

IPC releases January 2024 Global Sentiment of the Electronics Supply Chain Report

Electronics Industry sentiment improved during January, with electronics manufacturers, on average, stating that they expect 5.2 percent revenue growth for 2023, with an increase to 9.5 percent in 2024, according to IPC’s January 2024 Global Sentiment of the Electronics Supply Chain Report.

Labor and materials costs continue to rise, with 59 percent of electronics manufacturers experiencing a rise in labor costs while 45 percent report rising material costs.

“Industry insiders appear optimistic about 2024,” said Shawn DuBravac, IPC chief economist. “Demand sentiment rose in January, driven primarily by stronger shipment data.”

Additional survey data show:

  • The New Order Index rose 1 point to 102.
  • The Shipment Index rose 5 points to 110.
  • The Backlog Index was flat at 94.
  • The Capacity Utilization Index remained steady at 106 for the third consecutive month.
  • Cost measures remain at an all-time low, remaining flat for the third consecutive month.

For the report, IPC surveyed hundreds of companies from around the world, including a wide range of company sizes representing the full electronics manufacturing value chain.

View full report.

IPC and the PCBAA Urge Congress to Fully Fund and Invigorate Domestic PCB Industry

Feb 06, 2024

IPC joined with the Printed Circuit Board Association of America (PCBAA) to deliver a letter to Congress today that was signed by 54 member companies. The impactful letter called on Congress to fully fund the Defense Production Act Purchases Account at the House-passed level of $618 million and $1.08 billion for the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment program.  

IPC and PCBAA advocated for the Presidential Determination declaring printed circuit boards (PCBs) as a critical defense industrial base need, qualifying the industry for investment from the Defense Production Act program. As Congress negotiates full year funding by the March 8 deadline, Congress needs to fulfill the Presidential Determination for Printed Circuit Boards and Substrates by fully funding the Defense Production Act Purchases account at the higher, House-passed level of $618.6 million.

PCBs are central to all electronics across all industries including defense, healthcare, telecommunications, aviation, and automotive. U.S. armed forces depend on PCBs found in everything from night vision goggles and drones to avionics and satellites.

The success of the United States' strategic investments like the CHIPS and Science Act hinge on advanced printed circuit boards. Unfortunately, the U.S. lags behind in PCB production, jeopardizing our investments. The Defense Production Act Purchases program has started presenting awards using funds from prior years. However, without complete funding, it cannot proceed with additional essential investments in the PCB industry, as identified by the President and multiple U.S. government supply chain reviews. 

 View full letter. 

IPC Mourns Loss of Former Vice President of Industry Programs, Tony Hilvers

Feb 06, 2024

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It is with sadness that IPC announces the passing of Tony Hilvers, former IPC vice president of industry programs, on Tuesday, February 6. Hilvers left IPC in 2012 after 29 years of service.

During his long tenure, Hilvers was responsible for the association’s market research, government relations and environmental policy, meetings and professional development departments.

In addition, he was responsible for industry segments including the PWB and EMS Management Councils, the PWB Suppliers Council, the Surface Mount Equipment Manufacturers (SMEMA) Council, the Solder Products Value Council, and associated events, including IPC APEX EXPO. While he was vice president of industry programs, IPC APEX EXPO was named one of the top 25 fastest-growing U.S. trade shows in attendance by Trade Show News Network.

While serving as director of educational services and marketing communications, he formed the EMS Management Council and published the first market research study on the EMS industry in 1984. Hilvers was also instrumental in launching IPC Printed Circuits Expo, IPC APEX Conference and Exhibition and the co-located IPC APEX EXPO and worked with the Hong Kong Printed Circuit Association to launch the HKPCA/IPC International Printed Circuits and Assembly Fair.

Said David Bergman, IPC’s vice president of standards and technology and long-time colleague of Hilvers, “I had the privilege of working with Tony for nearly 30 years. I did sales visits, traveled internationally, collaborated, supported and was supported by Tony and his team. I always admired his ability to listen to a group of business leaders, figure out a program to solve a problem they were faced with, and then convince others that this program was worth their support. Tony’s passion for the industry and his natural sales ability facilitated his creation of many new programs for IPC.”

IPC extends its sincere condolences to Tony’s family, friends, and former work colleagues.

My Top Three Reads from Winter Issue of IPC Community

Feb 06, 2024

I just finished the latest issue of IPC Community which is chock full of great content, including timely updates on IPC standards, workforce programs, and events like IPC APEX EXPO 2024. The issue also spotlights the certification team that works with our community to develop, implement and promote industry credentialing and workforce programs. The Community magazine is truly an indispensable resource!
 
But the articles I enjoy most are those that feature the amazing people in our community—electronics professionals who commit themselves every day to building electronics better through industry collaboration. In the spirit, here are my top 3 reads from the latest issue:
 
A Farmer at Heart. How can you not love this profile of IPC standards volunteer Joe Russeau? He brings the same passion, precision, and sense of responsibility to his cattle farm that he brings to his work at Precision Analytical Lab Inc.  
 
Demystifying the Technical Activities Executive Committee. The headline undersells an article that pops through the voices of those on the committee. The true gem though is the mini-profile of Karen McConnell, a giant in our industry and who I learned is also a “Harry Potter nut.” On the kind of collaboration that takes place in IPC standards committee meetings, she says, “We can do things better together than any one of us could individually.” That truly is the IPC spirit which places problem solving at the heart of what we do!
 
IPC Day Romania. I'm jealous of those who attended this amazing Flex-sponsored event in #Romania which drew more than 230 participants and great speakers from the industry’s leading companies. Congrats again to IPC Europe for organizing such an incredible event. This piece is just one of many in Community that exemplifies IPC’s global reach.

Also don’t miss Shawn DuBravac, PhD, CFA DuBravac’s take on near-shoring with a focus on Mexico, Jan Pedersen’s piece on recycling of PCBs, Mike Carano’s update on IPC’s Thought Leadership Program, an interview with IPC chapter leaders at Auburn University, and the profiles of American Standard Circuits, LLC Standard Circuits-Sunstone Circuits and BOSTONtec.     
 
And if you have ideas for the next issue, reach out to the editorial team! Share your suggestions and questions. After all, as Karen McConnell reminds us, doing things together is better!
 

IPC Partners with the Institute for American Apprenticeship to Announce Funding Opportunities to Reimburse Participation in IPC’s Registered Apprenticeship Program

IPC, the leading association for electronics manufacturing, and the Institute of American Apprenticeship (IAA) will offer two grant opportunities to companies offering apprenticeships.

One grant offers funding for a first-time apprentice program, given to new employers adopting apprenticeships. The grant provides $375 per apprentice.

The second grant offers full reimbursement for the cost of related technical instruction, equal to $500 per apprentice. The funding for this grant is available through June 2024, and seats are limited.

“We are excited to join IAA to offer funding opportunities for apprenticeship programs,” said David Hernandez, IPC vice president of education. “Apprenticeships help to address the workforce shortage by providing unique opportunities for learning. In addition, the two funding sources can be combined for added value allowing a company to be reimbursed in full for the related technical instruction and receive an additional $375 per new apprentice in the first cohort.

For more information and assistance with this opportunity, please contact Victoria Hawkins, director of workforce grants and proposals at VictoriaHawkins@ipc.org. To learn more about the funding and an upcoming webinar, visit www.ipc.org/workforce-training-apprentice-funding.

Electronics Industry Mourns Loss of Visionary and Long-time IPC Leader and Volunteer Michael Ford

Jan 31, 2024
Michael Ford

It is with deep sadness that IPC reports the recent news of the death of industry visionary and long-time IPC leader and volunteer Michael Ford, who passed away on January 27.

Working most recently for Aegis Software provided Michael the opportunity to apply his software for electronics assembly manufacturing experience to further drive technology solution innovation, satisfying evolving business needs in modern digital manufacturing.

Throughout his career, including eight years working in Japan, Michael was instrumental in creating and evolving revolutionary software solutions for assembly manufacturing.

An established thought leader for Industry 4.0 data-driven manufacturing, and an active contributor to IPC’s standards development activities, Michael has been recognized by IPC with the Hillman-Lambert, the IPC President’s and Dieter Bergman IPC Fellowship awards. These awards recognized his contributions to IPC standards including connected factory exchange (CFX), cybersecurity, traceability, secure supply-chain and digital twin standards, and his service on IPC’s Technical Activities Executive Committee (TAEC).

“IPC staff, Michael’s fellow standards committee members and his colleagues at Aegis are better for having known and worked alongside him as we’ve benefited from his knowledge and his passion for the industry,” said IPC President and CEO John Mitchell.

“An active participant on more than a dozen IPC technical committees and a sought-after speaker on software solutions for assembly manufacturing, Michael helped promote and position IPC’s factory of the future initiative by contributing articles, columns and blogs to several leading industry publications, presenting at several IPC events and serving as a thought leader on the subject. He will be greatly missed, but always remembered as an industry expert, leader and friend,” added Mitchell.

“IPC extends its sincere condolences to Michael’s family, work colleagues and friends during this difficult time.”

IPC Standards Task Group Meeting - Japan regional F2F meeting

Date
- (Oct 30, 2024 | 11:30pm - Oct 31, 2024 | 3:00am CDT)

This face-to-face opportunity intends for regional task group members in Japan such as 7-31BV-JP. With the guests from IPC Global, we discuss and make proposals to the original task group.

For more information or event sponsorship, please contact Mr. Yusaku Kono at YusakuKono@ipc.org

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