Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1309864
NOVEMBER 2020 I PCB007 MAGAZINE 57 ternship programs. They're actively involved in bringing chemical engineers and new blood into our industry, and we're working with cus- tomers like that to support their projects. Our new and senior engineers work on projects with these interns. Hopefully, they bond so that the percentage that stays in our industry can grow together—but we must retrain. We must get these new engineers familiar with all the processes so the software and tooling can advance with the technology. Matties: What advice would you give to a board fabricator today that is looking at bringing new equipment into their facility? Brask: Look at your cost of ownership. You might get flashed a low price, but what's it going to cost you to maintain that equipment and keep it running and make it last the 10–20 years you're expecting? Process pumps, motors, and other parts die, and you must get replacements quick- ly. What are they going to be, and how quickly can you get them? Because a lot of our customer base still isn't stocking very much, they typical- ly don't have the technical staff to service and support it unless you get into the bigger com- panies, so they depend on their vendors. When you put an equipment matrix together, look at your cost of ownership and the history of what you are buying, and who will support it. Matties: You have come a long way in your business, and it seems you are on a really good path here. Brask: For us, it's a business plan that's very sustainable, and it's within our ability to man- age and control and get to that next level. We are poised to be a massive support for the North American market because there is some rebounding happening right now, which is re- assuring. Matties: Good for you, Mike. Brask: Thank you very much. PCB007 Completed machines ready for shipment. IPS has invested in the latest technologies to ensure repeatable quality.