IPC International Community magazine an association member publication
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IPC COMMUNITY 83 SPRING 2025 Success Stories and Case Studies One success story at DETEX exemplifies the trans- formative impact of our apprenticeships. Jamie's jour- ney at DETEX began as a temp employee in a custodial role. Jamie quickly began cross-training in an assembly role and showed an aptitude for soldering. She is now registered in IPC's apprenticeship program to become a skilled electronics assembler. This transition demon- strates that individuals can significantly elevate their careers with the proper training and support. Similarly, our collaboration with Diboll ISD in Texas has been successful, with five students securing positions at the local Lockheed Martin facility upon completion of their training. We've also trained faculty and integrated IPC standards into curricula at Stephen F. Austin State University with a grant awarded by the Center for Applied Research and Rural Innovation (CARRI). Our strategic partnerships are helping build a pipeline from education to employment, enhancing academic outcomes and industry readiness. IPC Can Help Companies Find Workforce Funding IPC actively assists companies in identifying and applying for workforce development grants. We pro- vide comprehensive guidance to help companies nav- igate the complexities of grant applications, ensuring they can secure the necessary financial support for robust apprenticeship initiatives. Recently, IPC facilitated $125,000 in project grants explicitly aimed at fostering talent development. Addi- tionally, IPC helped secure a significant grant from the AARP Foundation that focuses on retraining adults 55+ and older in Texas and Florida, preparing them for new careers in electronics manufacturing. This initiative is part of our broader strategy to make training accessi- ble and tailored to the diverse needs of the workforce, enabling companies to leverage various funding oppor- tunities to support their training objectives. Future Directions and IPC's Strategic Goals Looking ahead, IPC aims to broaden its workforce development initiatives, foster more regional partner- ships, and integrate industry-recognized certifications into training programs. These efforts are designed to extend the reach and impact of our programs, ensuring comprehensive benefits for individuals and communi- ties alike. Conclusion IPC's commitment to workforce development is pivotal for the growth and sustainability of the elec- tronics manufacturing industry. The expansion of our apprenticeship programs and strategic partnerships are poised to continue making a significant impact, offering numerous opportunities for participation and collaboration in our thriving ecosystem. L-R: Victoria Hawkins, Ken Kuehler, Cory Blaylock, Martha Rodriguez, and Lorena Villanueva.