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34 SMT007 MAGAZINE I NOVEMBER 2025 The Heart of the Electronics Industry Beats in Guanajuato Alejandro Hernández F E AT U R E A RT I C L E by Lo re n a V i l l a n u eva , Global Electronics Association México G uanajuato is no longer just a land of history, cul- ture, and tourism. It's emerging as a key player in Mexico's electronics manufacturing ecosystem. This vision is brought to life by Alejandro Hernán- dez, undersecretary for Investment Attraction at the Ministry of Economic Development and Sustainability of Guanajuato. The discussion unfolded less like a formal interview and more like a strategic conversation between partners committed to a shared goal: positioning Guana- juato as a hub for advanced man- ufacturing, especially in electronics. "Guanajuato has always been at the forefront," Hernández says. "Now we're turning our focus to building our own electronics indus- try, just as we've done with the state's other 12 industrial clusters." A Strategic Move, Not a Stroke of Luck Guanajuato's grow- ing presence on the electronics map is no coincidence. What's happening here is the result of clear, deliber- ate strategy. "The government has made a conscious effort to attract key investments, develop local talent, and provide legal certainty," Hernández says. "We're not improvising." An Ecosystem Ready for Expansion Today, companies like Bosch, ELRAD, Kostal, and TYW Helion Young Electronics already operate in Guanajuato, conducting SMT processes and pro- ducing high-value components. "The car of the future is essentially a com- puter on wheels," Hernández says. "Automo- tive, aerospace, and even home appliance sec- tors are increasingly demanding electronics." These shifts are driving the integration of electronics into Guanajuato's broader industrial fabric. Education and Talent: The Crown Jewels What truly sets Guanajuato apart is its investment in human capital. The state's IECA (State Training Institute) and CEDECI (Electronic Design and Inte- grated Circuits Center) have become national benchmarks. Through partnerships with organizations like Global Elec- tronics Association, SEMI, and the Iberoamerican Technology Foundation, Guanajuato is adapting technical training pro- grams at the speed of industry demands.