Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1537054
20 SMT007 MAGAZINE I JULY 2025 for certain industries. We've proven them wrong. We are a state that has made significant efforts to collaborate with coun- tries around the world, including Japan, Singapore, and Germany. But we're especially proud of our collaboration with the Global Electronics Association. We see it as a catalyst for economic development. We are one of the few states in Mexico with an offi- cial strategic planning instru- ment, and we believe we have what it takes to succeed in the electronics industry as well. Before General Motors arrived in Guanajuato in 1995, the land that now has a factory produc- ing nearly 400,000 pickup trucks annually was once a garlic field. We often joke that we went from growing garlic and broccoli to building $60,000 pickup trucks. Don't get me wrong—we're still strong in agribusiness—but we've successfully changed the narrative and expanded how the state is perceived. What do you offer that's appeal- ing to electronics companies? We've implemented public policy aimed at enhancing foreign direct investment. We are a business- oriented government, with infra- structure and a dedicated team to help foreign companies launch operations in central Mexico. We've identified companies manufacturing ECUs (engine control units), keyless antennas, and infotainment systems—all the multimedia components that connect a driver to their car. We've observed that many automotive companies are tran- sitioning to electromobility, which heavily relies on electronics. But we don't want to be seen as only an automotive state. There's a sig- nificant home appliances sector as well, which requires electronics such as tablets and control panels. We have a strong and well- established IT cluster in Guana- juato. I believe our business envi- ronment is fertile and well-suited for the types of companies we've seen here at the show. What kind of electronics com- panies should consider invest- ing in Mexico? We're open to all kinds. For instance, we already have more than 12 wire harness manufactur- ing operations in Guanajuato. We also have embedded software companies, electronics manufac- turers, and firms that integrate electronics into full systems. Logistics are crucial. Talent and human resources are also among the most critical aspects of this industry. With our own state-run training institute, we have systems in place to help companies develop the talent they need. I won't claim we have it all figured out, but we have the commitment and drive to keep moving forward. What are the benefits of your training centers? We have nearly 30 training cen- ters in Guanajuato focused on electronics and related indus- tries, including CNC machining, micro-wiring, and welding. We can train people to successfully carry out industrial processes. Workforce development is a major concern, especially how to attract young talent. We were one of the first states in Mexico to implement the German dual edu- cation system, which is globally recognized for its effectiveness. We've also learned from the best in the U.S. For example, we visited Henry Ford Community College to understand how they train students. We have strong cooperation with Japan, and I really appreciate our work with the Global Electronics Association. Can you tell us more about your connection with the Global Electronics Association team in Mexico? Our collaboration with Lorena is straightforward and focused on talent development. Working with Lorena and her team has helped us identify new oppor- tunities to grow the electronics sector in Guanajuato. I valued attending IPC APEX EXPO because it allowed us to speak directly with companies engaged in complex produc- tion. We're especially interested in PCB manufacturing and sur- face-mount technology, but we " " We are one of the few states in Mexico with an official strategic planning instrument, and we believe we have what it takes to succeed in the electronics industry as well.