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REAL TIME WITH... IPC APEX EXPO 2020 SHOW & TELL MAGAZINE I I-CONNECT007 13 oughly enjoyed. I was able to learn from emerg- ing engineers about their career plans, as well as learn what their mentors planned to teach them. To see engineers from every age group building a stronger industry right in front of me was exciting and encouraging. Attending our packed Newcomers Reception, I was able to watch our subject-matter experts and long- time volunteers share their knowledge with a new crop of eager engineers, who will succeed them as subject matter experts with time. The IPC Education Foundation (IPCEF) hosted their annual STEM event, welcoming 193 local high school students and 30 educa- tors for a day-long event allowing them to see, feel, and touch what the electronics industry has to offer. Students partici- pated in educational tracks with a focus on soldering, PCB design, and building circuits with breadboards. Students learned hand sol- dering from IPC trainers, talked to exhibitors on the show floor about the var- ied opportunities a career in electronics would pro- vide them, and visited the CFX/HERMES production lines and participated in a career panel discussion. The STEM Student Out- reach Program was supported by IPC members and part- ners who were instrumental in pulling it together either through donations of equip- ment, the participation of trainers and exhibitors, and generous sponsorships. It's a rewarding event for all of us, and we eagerly anticipated the reaction the kids have to the event and enjoyed answering their insightful questions. We had a wonderful oppor- tunity to ask questions of our own when Burt Rutan, aero- space legend, who delivered the IPC APEX EXPO keynote speech about his remarkable and creative career in engineering, remind- ing all of us who work with creative people to "let the innovator decide what risk to take." Another speaker that had us enthralled was Elaine Larsen, jet dragster racer, who deliv- ered the keynote at the Women in Electronics reception, explaining how she went from her Mennonite upbringing to a career in motors- ports, and how her company provides STEM outreach to local Florida students. We introduced a few new initiatives at this IPC APEX EXPO, from our chief economist, Shawn DuBravac, who will focus on industry