IPC International Community magazine an association member publication
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C O M M U N I T Y M A G A Z I N E 3 4 S U M M E R 2 0 2 5 "No matter the issue, member voices are often the most powerful way to make a compelling case to policymakers on Capitol Hill and in the White House." —Rich Cappetto for our industry," he says. "Con- gress needs to understand what we do, how they can help us, or just get out of our way." David has worked with Rich's team in writ- ing a letter of encouragement to a senator or participating in an important lobbying call. "Member voices are among the most powerful tools we have in advocacy," Rich says. "Elected officials want to understand how policies affect businesses in their states and districts. Hear- ing directly from a company executive, owner, or worker is an important part of helping policy- makers understand the industry. It puts real names to real faces." In turn, the Global Electronics Association now has more infor- mation to share with policymakers that helps them understand the complexity and interconnected- ness of the electronics industry, from "silicon to systems." "We aim to help them under- stand the strategic importance of the entire ecosystem as they continue to write legislation and set policy surrounding semicon- ductor manufacturing and supply chain security," Rich says. Want to get involved? Stephanie says you may feel apprehensive at first about par- ticipating because you might feel you don't understand politics or follow the news. "Rest assured, being well-versed in these topics is not a prerequisite for participat- ing," she says. "Advocacy for our industry is about communicating the needs of an industry that has a vital impact on our American way of life, and those needs supersede the sides of the aisle." Legislators appreciate the detail about what you manufacture, the number of employees, and your years in business. "These stories help connect the human side to the legislative sup- port you're requesting," Stephanie says. "With some follow-up emails, you can foster a partnership with your state representative. Often, they are more likely to visit your facility or participate in a future event. They can help you expand your visibility in your community and keep the industry's needs at the forefront." She encourages companies to invite representatives to their fac- tory, but cautions that they often have schedule limitations. "Last year, we had Rep. Darin LaHood (Illinois) visit our Bloom- ington facility, and I'm currently working on a visit for Rep. Julie Johnson in Richardson, Texas," she says. David Raby, CEO of STI Elec- tronics in Madison, Alabama, USA, has invited his local rep- resentatives to visit his facility, including Rep. Dale Strong, "who has been very gracious over his time in office with us." David has remained active with the Global Electronics Association's govern- ment relations committees. "It doesn't always necessarily benefit STI directly, but it's good