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114 I-CONNECT007 I REAL TIME WITH... IPC APEX EXPO 2020 SHOW & TELL MAGAZINE by Tracy Riggan IPC—ASSOCIATION CONNECTING ELECTRONICS INDUSTRIES EMS leaders gathered for a jam-packed agenda at the EMS Management Meeting on February 3 at IPC APEX EXPO 2020 and highlighted work- force, policy, economic, and technology best practices. John Mitchell, IPC president and CEO, welcomed the group, introducing key IPC team and resource additions for EMS leaders, includ- ing Shawn DuBravac, chief economist, and Matt Kelly, chief technologist. The day proceeded with presenters on topics from the economy and process technology to cybersecurity and work- force issues and included two EMS member spotlights highlighting best practices from peers. Mark Wolfe, director of supply manage- ment at John Deere Electronic Solutions, said, "Throughout a fast-moving day that covered a broad range of topics, it was great to see the high level of energy among a healthy mix of repeat and new attendees." He continued, "The willingness of the group to openly share experiences—whether through organized roundtable sessions, speaker Q&A sessions, or informal conversations—is always one of the things that I am impressed with meeting after meeting. It is a pleasure to host a group of EMS leaders who are clearly passionate about the success of their own companies but still so committed to improving the overall industry." Workforce Challenges: A Top Priority The key challenge at the top of EMS lead- ers' minds during roundtable discussions was the lack of skilled workers. Leaders brain- stormed solutions like creative identification and sourcing of talent outside of the manu- Best Practices Highlighted at the 2020 IPC EMS Management Meeting