IPC International Community magazine an association member publication
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IPC COMMUNITY 32 SPRING 2024 that I had a lot to learn about electronics man- ufacturing at that point. Throughout my career at Lockheed Martin, I've gone from not knowing anything related to electronics manufactur- ing to becoming a certified trainer. I teach new operators, assemblers, technicians, and engi- neers about IPC standards and the applications that they will use in the production and manu- facturing settings when they begin their careers. Were you planning on getting into electron- ics or did that just surprise you? Personally, I had an interest in STEM education; that was my passion. I got my Master of Science and Science Education from Montana State Uni- versity. STEM was a big focus, so when I found that Lockheed Martin focuses on it and recruits people who are interested in STEM careers, it was a big draw for me. 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, are really exciting. Being able to imple- ment that focus and seeing more industries create those partnerships is the most exciting thing because things are always evolving, and we're going to need that qualified workforce. To make those changes in the future, we must prepare and upskill existing workers for those future opportunities. What are you most enjoying about your work now at IPC? I most enjoy getting to work with companies of various sizes, in different states and navigating the workforce system for them in their state, figuring out the intricacies because every state is different and every grant is different. I really enjoy establishing those relationships and help- ing the employer solve the problem they have. You're not one to rest on your laurels. What's next for you and your work with IPC? We're gearing up to expand IPC's registered apprenticeship program into more commu- nity college curriculums, offering specialized micro-credential opportunities for universities, and deepening our involvement in high school CTE programs nationwide. By continually innovating and collaborating, we're ensuring a strong talent pipeline for the electronics indus- try's future. I'm excited to lead these initiatives and make a lasting impact on workforce devel- opment. The Lufkin/Angelina County Chamber of Commerce celebrated Lockheed's training lab. In her spare time, Cory loves being on the tractor, working on the property around her home. IPC COMMUNITY 32 SPRING 2024