Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1531663
22 PCB007 MAGAZINE I JANUARY 2025 Feature Article by Cory Blaylock DIRECTOR OF WORKFORCE PARTNERSHIPS, IPC IPC has partnered with Stephen F. Austin State University's (SFASU) Center for Applied Research and Rural Innovation (CARRI) and the IPC Education Foundation on a transfor- mative project aimed at aligning academic training with real-world demands in electron- ics manufacturing. is partnership is not only a significant step forward in workforce devel- opment but a shining example of how aca- demia and industry can join forces to create a future-ready workforce. ough this exam- Bridging the Gap: Workforce Collaboration in East Texas ple is focused on PCB assembly, it showcases a valuable model for workforce development in all areas of electronics manufacturing. e spark igniting this transformation? A powerful blend of strategic funding, hands- on training, and deep industr y-academic col- laboration. A select group of SFASU faculty and stu- dents underwent intensive certification train- ing last summerfor IPC-J-STD-001 and IPC- A-610. ese certifications, pivotal for careers