Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1518649
14 DESIGN007 MAGAZINE I APRIL 2024 Feature Article by Cory Blaylock IPC In a monumental stride for the electron- ics manufacturing industry, IPC has success- fully championed the recognition of the PCB Design Engineer as an official occupation by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). is pivotal achievement not only underscores the critical role of PCB design engineers within the technology landscape, but also marks the beginning of a transformative journey toward nurturing a robust, skilled workforce ready to propel our industry into the future. At the heart of this journey is IPC's unwaver- ing commitment to developing National Pro- gram Standards that cater to the intricate needs of electronics manufacturing, emphasizing the importance of a highly trained workforce. e PCB Design Engineer Now 'Official Occupation' approval of the PCB design engineer occupa- tion by the U.S. DOL is a testament to the col- lective vision and relentless efforts of countless individuals within the IPC community as well as the industry, which believes in the power of education, training, and standardization. e PCB design engineer role is founda- tional to the electronics manufacturing value stream, serving as the linchpin that transforms innovative ideas into tangible, functioning technologies. ese engineers are tasked with the intricate design of PCBs, which serve as the backbone for nearly all electronic devices. eir work supports not just the creation of new products but also the enhancement of existing technologies, ensuring they meet