IPC International Community magazine an association member publication
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IPC COMMUNITY 19 SUMMER 2023 with IPC standards development so he could have a better understanding of requirements and to help make things better. Steven: I joined the IPC committees for IPC- T-50 and IPC-6012 in 2012 while working in printed board fabrication at another company. It was mostly based on the recommendations of my dad and his involvement, which by then had been more than 15 years. What is the value in contributing to one or more IPC standards groups, either as a member or as a leader? Scott: The value is being able to stay at the forefront of changes taking place in the indus- try from a technology perspective, sharing our company's interests and concerns regarding PCB design, fabrication, test and inspection, and helping shape IPC standards and performance specifications that will benefit the entire industry. Contributing to multiple standards groups, (e.g., design and fabrica- tion), helps connect the dots and ensures one supports the other. Steven: There's an incredible value, personally and professionally. Our involvement benefits the industry, the companies we work for, and our personal development. We are participating in advancing technology, defining requirements, and ensuring reliability for the greater good. What's it like working on committees together as father and son? Scott: I have found it very rewarding being able to share my knowledge and experiences, but more so seeing Steven grow with involve- ment in not only IPC standards development by taking on leadership roles, but also with other involvements like participating in the IPC Emerging Engineers program and ulti- mately mentoring multiple individuals. Steven is an awesome note taker. Steven: It's awesome—except when he con- stantly asks me to send him my meeting notes. Did you think when you started that you would be involved in IPC committees this long? Scott: I had no idea in the beginning that I would spend decades volunteering with IPC standards development. In the beginning I just wanted to get a more in-depth understanding of basic requirements and help fix the gap between sup- pliers and OEMs; however, the more I learned, the more I wanted to support IPC in its efforts. Steven: Nope, no way. I initially thought it would be for a single revision of the IPC-T-50, not a 15-year commitment. I'm sure Scott will respond similarly but with a few more than 15 years. What would you say to some- one on the fence about joining an IPC standards development committee? Scott: Don't hesitate to get involved. I have continued to learn throughout my career and a lot of that learning has taken place at the table of IPC standards devel- opment committees by working hand-in-hand with peers from throughout the industry. Par- ticipating in IPC standards committees pro- vides an opportunity to work side-by-side with the best and brightest and that provides learn- ing you cannot get elsewhere. Steven: Do it. Just jump in. That's exactly what I've told my Emerging Engineer mentees and those I've formally mentored at Lockheed Martin. There's an opportunity to learn and engage and at the very least, you'll likely pick up knowledge simply by osmosis. Don't hesitate to get involved.