Issue link: https://iconnect007.uberflip.com/i/1541840
16 DESIGN007 MAGAZINE I DECEMBER 2025 • Delegate when possible: Learn to trust and delegate tasks. It frees up your time, light- ens your load, and empowers others to grow. The price of that hero mentality can be isola- tion, exhaustion, and ultimately, a less effec- tive outcome for everyone involved. • Communicate expectations clearly: Let your manager and team know your availability and boundaries to prevent misunderstand- ings and reduce unnecessary pressure. Be your own advocate. The Finished Product: A Life Well-designed, Rich With Connection In my story, Rylan eventually realized the profound price he paid for success in his per- sonal life, and how important it is to have a work-life balance. He began the long, difficult pro- cess of understanding that true suc- cess isn't just about professional accolades, but about a life well lived, surrounded by those you love and cherish. It's a continuous journey, a con- stant design and re-design, but one that is infinitely worth undertaking. If you haven't realized by now, Rylan is me. So, go forth, my fellow PCB engineers. Apply the same meticulous care and strategic thinking you bring to your boards to the design of your own life. It's the most important project you'll ever under- take, and ensuring its long-term reliability and efficiency will bring rewards truly boundless, far beyond any profes- sional accolade. Happy design- ing, and happy, connected living. DESIGN007 Stephen V. Chavez, CPCD, CID/ CID+, has been involved with electronic design for 22 years and chairs the Printed Circuit Engineering Association (PCEA). S te p h e n v i s i te d C rate r L a ke d u r i n g a t r i p to O re g o n i n 2 0 24. ▼