IPC International Community magazine an association member publication
Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1533344
IPC COMMUNITY 31 SPRING 2025 experienced significant growth, with its membership base doubling from 90 to 180 members over the next decade. The Annual Global Leadership Summit, WHMA's cor- nerstone event, launched in 1993 and has since become a highly anticipated winter tradition, offer- ing exceptional opportunities for networking, professional develop- ment, and industry inspiration. "The wire harness and cable assembly industry was lacking an association, and the formation of WHMA provided a great opportu- nity for manufacturer and supplier owner-member companies to con- tribute while exchanging valuable hands-on information," Norm says. The association's influence fur- ther expanded in 1994 when Fred Knaack launched Wire Harness News in Richmond, Illinois. With WHMA's backing, the publication quickly became the leading source for industry insights, amplifying WHMA's voice and reinforcing its role as a central resource for the wire harness and cable assembly community. A Partnership Elevating Standards In 1998, WHMA and IPC took a transformative step forward by signing a Memorandum of Under- standing (MoU), formalizing a col- laboration that continues to benefit the industry today. This partnership resulted in the development of the IPC/WHMA-A-620 standard, a crit- ical document for ensuring quality and workmanship in wire harness and cable assembly manufacturing. "The partnership between IPC and WHMA unites the strengths of both organizations to advance industry standards, education, and advocacy in the wire harness and cable assembly industry," says Dave Bergman, WHMA executive director. "Revised and refined over the years, these standards remain invaluable tools for WHMA mem- bers and the industry as a whole." Honoring Dedication and Excellence WHMA has always valued those who go above and beyond. The prestigious "Bud and Gus Award," created in 1997 in memory of industry pioneers Bud Melugin and Gus Knaack, honors members who embody exceptional service and dedication. Award winners are cele- brated for their tireless efforts and contributions, showcasing the spirit that fuels WHMA's growth.