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26 SMT007 MAGAZINE I DECEMBER 2020 The IPC Electronics Workforce Training Initiative The goal of the IPC Electronics Workforce Training initiative is to provide easy-to-imple- ment, cost-effective, and efficient training pro- grams that teach the knowledge and skills needed to perform specific job functions to industry-defined levels of proficiency. Each of our Workforce Development Programs is built through a partnership with the industry. We rou- tinely speak with dozens of industry members around the world about the issues they face. If training is identified as a solution, a volun- teer group of industry subject-matter experts works with IPC learning professionals to design and develop materials and courses that meet these specifically defined needs. Finally, we test the resulting educational solution in real- life settings and make any required changes before making it available to the wider pub- lic. The IPC EDGE online education platform allows anyone, anywhere, to access this con- tent at any time. The IPC Electronics Workforce Training ini- tiative adheres to three core principles: Train- ing solutions must address real-world skills gaps, be developed through industry partner- ships, and provide for flexible implementation. We have begun by addressing critical skills gaps that industry members are experiencing with new operators and PCB designers. Operators The Electronics Assembly for Operators (EAO) training program was released in August. This pro- gram introduces operators to the key concepts, tools, materials, and processes required to consis- tently assemble high-quality PCBs and is comprised of 18 training modules. The first nine modules are mandatory and cover topics the industry determined are crit- ical for every assembly opera- tor. These include PCB assembly, safety, ESD and product handling, component identification, draw- ings and specifications, basic PCB and PCBA defects, and the use of standards. The second set of nine modules are optional and include more detailed information about specific areas of assembly such as SMT and TH technologies, hand soldering, conformal coating, hardware, and press fit. The program's modular structure allows for flexible implementation. Those organiza- tions that need generalists can have their stu- dents complete all 18 modules, while those that require specialists may opt to have stu- dents complete the first nine modules and only those optional modules that relate directly to their specific job role. Since each block of nine modules requires an average of 16–20 hours to complete, the total commitment to the pro- gram is one week at the top end. A second operator focused program, Wire Harness Assembly for Operators (WHO), is nearing launch. This program's 14 modules are also divided into mandatory and optional units. The first seven modules cover core knowledge and skills such as safety, docu- mentation, materials and components, tools and equipment, wire preparation and pro- cessing, and inspection and testing. The sec- ond group of modules is focused on specific job tasks such as crimped and soldered termi- nations, splicing, connectors, labeling, secur- ing and coverings, and finished assembly. The program has entered the beta testing phase