Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1532278
FEBRUARY 2025 I DESIGN007 MAGAZINE 53 How can registrants get the most out of attending the technical conference and special sessions? Welzel: Embrace the many different topics being covered so that you can get a real snap- shot of the newest technical developments in the industry and different fields in just a couple of days. It is time very well spent, and that's what I'm always excited about. Rak: Don't forget about the professional devel- opment courses as well. We have 31 courses planned that track to the same focus areas, which track largely to many of the paper pre- sentations. ough IPC is making the deci- sions on which courses to provide, they ask us to weigh in based on what we are seeing in the paper abstracts. So, if you're just registering for the technical conference, I would strongly encourage you to also look at what profes- sional development courses are being offered. Attendees get maximum benefit from this con- ference when they take advantage of multiple offerings, not just one thing. Usually, the timing of the courses is not in direct conflict with the paper presentations. e courses begin on Sunday and the technical conference is Tuesday through ursday, with the special sessions being on ursday. at is by design so people can optimize their oppor- tunities at the conference. Welzel: When you have a break, I encourage you to visit one of the task group meetings for standards development. at's also an activity that you should not ignore. It's a good chance to broaden your professional network and con- tact other subject matter experts. LaRont: Udo, why do you encourage attend- ees to visit a committee meeting? Welzel: You have a powerful network of sub- ject matter experts, and you can contribute to the industry's overall advancement. It's a very rewarding activity. So, I absolutely encourage everyone to become active in standards development. Standards are crucial for improving quality, fostering innova- tion, and reducing time to market. I've been involved in this for many years, and you can be, too. I'm always looking forward to these meet- ings because there's a lot to learn during them. Rak: It is valuable for your professional growth and your company. ese volunteers are help- ing to shape future standards that we will all live by. e company may want to play a role in that or at least know what's heading their way. Welzel: Don't see standards as constraints or things that hinder innovation. It is the oppo- site; they foster innovation. ey make innova- tion accessible to the wider market. To conclude, I want to mention the outstanding commitment of the entire Technical Program Committee and the IPC staff. ey are very effi- cient teams, easy to work with, orga- nized, and the TPC is all volunteer. Thank you so much for your service to the industry and your involvement in IPC. It's always a pleasure talking to you both. Welzel: Indeed, thanks for spreading the word Rak: ank you. DESIGN007