Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1537054
JULY 2025 I SMT007 MAGAZINE 21 offer more than that. We also have experience in integrating these components into comprehensive systems that support full industrial processes. Robotics plays a key role in what we do. I've seen PCBA assembly companies here, but also automation firms offering equipment to enhance production efficiency. We're very interested in exploring those partnerships too. I've also noticed surface treatment operations and service providers that support electronics firms. If we want to build a strong ecosystem, we need to consider all of them. We're here to see which of them might be interested in Mexico. What was your purpose for visiting IPC APEX EXPO? Getting to know and work with Lorena enabled us to engage with over 400 companies at this event. We believe some of them have the potential to expand their production capabilities to Mexico. We want to be first in line to support them if they decide to establish operations in Mexico. Our department is the part of the state government that offers incentives and has the team to guide them through due diligence and help get their operations running smoothly. That's our main goal. How can the industry raise wages and become more attractive? We're betting strongly on what we call the knowl- edge economy. We aim to attract com- panies involved in software develop- ment, R&D, and prototype labs in sec- tors like automotive, aerospace, and metals. These roles offer better sala- ries and career development. We are transitioning from simple manufactur- ing to more advanced production of components and systems. For example, we started with labor- intensive wire harness manufactur- ing, but today we're proud to say that entire powertrain systems—includ- ing engines, transmissions, and axle components—are being designed and built in Guanajuato. An engineer working on powertrain systems earns more than one solely involved in wire harness assembly. Our goal is to attract more complex manufacturing capabilities to the state. That's why we're here. And it's not just about manufacturing. We want to support innovation. Shared Service Centers, such as consolidated payroll or procurement operations, are increasingly relocating to Mexico. They're finding that not only is it cost-effective, but we also have the talent to deliver results. We want to move beyond simple manufacturing to a sophisticated, knowledge-driven industry. What are your next steps? We already have a list of companies we'll begin conversations with to explore mutual opportunities and understand their long-term plans. I want to emphasize long-term because although there may be global uncertainty, we work with companies that think ahead. Even during challeng- ing times, they continue planning and operating. We'll make sure to promote IPC Mexico's work, at least in our region. I believe our voice carries weight, and you can count on us to support what- ever they're doing. Thank you so much, Alejandro. It's been great to meet you. I look forward to working with you again. Thank you. SMT007 ▼ A l e j a n d ro c o nve rs i n g w i t h a g ro u p of at te n d e e s at I P C A P E X E X P O 2 0 2 5. ▼ A l e j a n d ro c o nve rs i n g w i t h a g ro u p of at te n d e e s at I P C A P E X E X P O 2 0 2 5.