PCB007 Magazine

PCB007-Feb2025

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66 PCB007 MAGAZINE I FEBRUARY 2025 wanted to be an engineer. Now, that may have changed a few times over the years, but by college, I knew I wanted to pursue electrical engineering. I got into electronics through a PCB manu- facturing class at Michigan Technological Uni- versity in Houghton, and I really enjoyed it, so I joined the electronics club. Later, I applied and was selected as the IPC Student Board Mem- ber, which was an incredible learning oppor- tunity for me. Looking back at your career journey so far, what's been the most unexpected aspect or experience you've had? I remember taking this English course in high school, and we had to write a weekly blog about whatever we wanted. I told myself that I would never write articles again. Now, I've been writing articles for I-Connect007 for about two years. It's funny how these types of things work out. What advice would you give to someone contemplating a career in engineering? I would definitely recommend that they learn good problem-solving skills. It's easy to punch numbers into a calculator and get the answer, but knowing what to do with those numbers and applying them to the real world is what really makes the difference. What do you wish you had known when you were deciding to become an engineer? I wish I had learned the soer skills, like learning how to network and being an active listener, and I wish someone had told me earlier about IPC standards committees. How have your employers helped you grow and develop as an engineer? I've been very fortunate to have employers who have encouraged my involvement in IPC and the industry as a whole. My current employer has offered many opportunities for me to be active in the industry, includ- ing committee standards involvement, allow- ing me to chair committees and network with other people in the industry. is has increased my career opportunities, both at my company and outside of it. In what way do you feel your career path has been influenced or supported by the IPC Emerging Engineer program? e Emerging Engineer Program was a launch pad for my career. I met other like-minded individuals in the program, and people who have been in the industry for decades. ey have taught me so much about electronics. It's been an invaluable experience. How was your experience with your mentor in the program? My mentor in the Emerging Engineer program was fantastic. He introduced me to many indi- viduals from varying disciplines, and showed me the ropes about where to go, who to see, and what to do. It was amazing. I've met sev- eral Emerging Engineers who have become lifelong friends. ey're no longer simply cus- tomers and vendors. I look forward to seeing and working with them every year. Paige Fiet with Happy Holden

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