Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1520492
REAL TIME WITH... IPC APEX EXPO 2024 SHOW & TELL MAGAZINE I I-CONNECT007 133 • Katie Carnevale (WorkHands) shed light on the transformative role of technology in enhancing and managing apprenticeship experiences. • Stephanie Austin (Zentech) offered a unique employer perspective as an early adopter of IPC's electronics assembler occupation. • Rich Cappetto (IPC North American Government Relations) contributed insights pertaining to IPC's advocacy efforts related to workforce training for the industry as a whole. Throughout both sessions, Victoria and I moderated discussions that underscored crucial aspects of apprenticeship and workforce training. Regulatory compli- ance emerged as a cornerstone, ensuring program quality and integrity through strict adherence to state and federal regulations. Collaborative partnerships with educational institutions, especially community colleges, were highlighted for their pivotal role in aligning training with industry demands. Accessing diverse funding opportunities, including federal, state, and local resources alongside initiatives like the Employment Training Panel, was emphasized as crucial support for employers and apprenticeship sponsors. Drawing insights from national best practices in apprenticeship models informed the development of effective strat- egies across sectors. Additionally, embracing technological innovation was underscored as essential, streamlining program manage- ment processes, and enhancing overall effi- ciency in workforce training initiatives. In conclusion, IPC's roundtable spurred col- laboration among stakeholders, equipping employers with vital knowledge in navigat- ing the apprenticeship landscape. Lever- aging partnerships, funding avenues, and technological advancements, apprentice- ships emerged as a transformative solution for workforce development and economic growth. Together, IPC aims to unlock the full potential of apprenticeships. For more information on apprenticeships and available funding opportunities, please contact me or Victoria. S&T Cory Blaylock is director of workforce part- nerships at IPC. Victoria Hawkins is director of education grants and proposals at IPC. Zhenxuan Zhang is a student at Binghamton University doing research on SMT assembly lines. What are you wanting to accomplishing this week? I want to know how the industry is using AI in inspection. We've had good conversations that have given us insight. What sort of research are you doing? We are working on the closed loop feedback, looking at solutions like monitoring machine-to- machine closed loop solutions. For example, from the AI result, we want to provide some insight to improve the monitor performance. Interview by Dylan Nguyen Zhenxuan Zhang FROM THE