Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1534385
96 PCB007 MAGAZINE I APRIL 2025 TOP TEN EDITOR'S PICKS Futurist Kevin Surace might have been great as a writer for science fiction TV and movies where technology was just within the realm of imagination and great camera tricks, but he's actually spent his career learning and inventing technology in real life. In this interview after his keynote address at IPC APEX EXPO 2025, Kevin reflects on important lessons learned and how they shaped his own future. He also makes some bold predictions for the use of AI in PCB board design, fabrication, and assembly—and what the common household will look like in 10 years. A Look Into the Future With Futurist Kevin Surace Gold has long been a cornerstone in the electronics industry, particularly in the surface finishing of PCBs and IC substrates. Gold plating is a critical step in several finish systems, including electroless nickel/immersion gold (ENIG), electroless nickel/electroless palladium/immersion gold (ENEPIG), and electroless palladium/ autocatalytic gold (EPAG). This article explores different types of electroless gold plating electrolytes, their plating mechanisms, and their properties and capabilities. Gold as a Key Component in PCBs and IC Substrates My name is Kurt Palmer, CEO of Schmoll America, and with my colleague Simon Khesin, we are launching this column about driving innovation in mechanical and optical process. To begin, I will look back at Schmoll's history, building a business of manufacturing PCB drilling machines, examining key technological milestones, and demonstrating how challenges were addressed over the years. In future columns, we will discuss current industry challenges, technological advancements, and anticipated trends shaping PCB manufacturing. Schmoll: Decades of Technology Evolution Paige Fiet is a graduate of the IPC Emerging Engineer program and now works at TTM Technologies in Logan, Utah. She was an IPC Student Board Member and has been a columnist for I-Connect007. She is a stellar example and an encouragement to other young engineers about how to be successful in your early career. She shares, "My dad was an engineer and as a kid, I remember going to visit him at his factory. I distinctly remember the day they put in a robot arm and how excited he was." Paige Fiet: From Emerging Engineer to Quality at TTM