Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1493016
REAL TIME WITH... IPC APEX EXPO 2023 SHOW & TELL MAGAZINE I I-CONNECT007 95 I would say that addressing skills shortages must begin at a local level—developing a workforce should begin with creating an ecosystem of partners and stakeholders from area school districts, local community col- leges, backyard universities, technical train- ing programs, and local and state workforce boards. When you create relationships with those organizations, it expands the sphere of influence to those who may not have been aware of the available careers in the electron- ics manufacturing industry. It is important to focus on removing barriers that sit between students and technical skills—especially for those students and potential employees from underrepre- sented populations. Isn't that true? When I started out in the industry, which was in the 1970s, I had no idea. Most people still don't have any idea about all the different types of careers available in our industry. Do you have any special moment or memories you could share regarding your involvement with IPC? I can say that IPC was really receptive to working with us at Lockheed when we were building our registered apprenticeship and including some of its education modules in our related technical instruction that we offer. Working with IPC's Carlos Plaza and Mike Hoyt was instrumental in getting all of that implemented. What do you find most exciting in our industry now? The changes that are happening in the work- force, especially with STEM education as a focus, is really exciting. Being able to imple- ment that focus and seeing more industries create those partnerships, is the most excit- ing thing, because things are always evolving and we're going to need that qualified work- force. To make those changes in the future, we must prepare and upskill existing workers for those future opportunities. Have you seen results from your partnerships with local schools and universities? Have you been able to hire some who came into the industry because of the STEM work that you've been doing? Yes, most definitely. Our partner- ships extend our training capabil- ities and have been instrumental in providing those sustainable talent pipelines that we are trying to create. This has been specifically impactful for career opportunities in Angelina County (where I live and work and where our facility is), and throughout the state of Texas and the whole United States. We continue to partner with academic institutions, as well as state and federal gov- ernments, to address the shortage of skilled workers, and we're committed to developing curriculums and supporting scholarships for veterans and unskilled and displaced workers to gain the skill-based training that they need to get jobs in our industry. Whether with Lockheed or another company in the industry, correct? Your commitment to training and education is very commendable. Any final thoughts? I'm very honored to accept the award at IPC APEX EXPO. It was very unexpected, but I'm just very honored and excited to accept it. I look forward to continuing to help prepare the workforce and develop talent pipelines. Congratulations again and thanks so much for your time. S&T IPC Excellence in Education Award It is important to focus on removing barriers that sit between students and technical skills ...