IPC International Community magazine an association member publication
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62 I-CONNECT007 MAGAZINE I FEBRUARY 2026 audiences to catch every word despite the bustling exhibit hall surroundings. This year, we've significantly expanded our agenda for the Learning Lounge. Presenters from across the industry have requested spots on the schedule, resulting in a full roster over three days of programming. Topics include team collaboration and performance optimization, excellence in confor- mal coating, maximizing the value of IPC training materials, building high-impact learning cultures, communities of practice, AI in electronics manufac- turing, nearshoring opportunities in Mexico, equip- ment training strategies, and the emerging Illinois Quantum Technology Hub. Session highlights include panels featuring veteran trainers who help shape and deliver the Association's CIT (certified trainer) and CIS (certi- fied specialist) materials; representatives from Sonora, Guanajuato, and Querétaro discussing regional advantages for electronics manufactur- ing in Mexico; and equipment manufacturers shar- ing strategies for training teams on cutting-edge machinery. Whether attendees are seeking work- force development insights, technical knowledge, or business strategy perspectives, the Learning Lounge offers something valuable. The Learning Lounge is located at the back of Exhibit Hall C-D, opposite the main hall entrance near rows 3600 and 3800. Sessions run through- out show floor hours, Tuesday through Thursday, March 17–19, giving attendees flexibility to drop in between booth visits, grab lunch, and engage with speakers in a relaxed setting. The Learning Lounge represents exactly what APEX EXPO does best: bringing together indus- try expertise, practical education, and networking opportunities in ways that genuinely benefit attend- ees. Last year proved the concept. This year prom- ises to deliver even more value. I-CONNECT007 For more information about the Learning Lounge, click here Carlos Plaza is senior direc- tor of education for the Global Electronics Association. IPC STANDARDS: The Heart of the Electronics Industry From its inception, standards development has been at the core of the Global Electronics Associa- tion's work, and APEX EXPO continues to serve as a major venue for standards development and approval. For example, standards committees from around the globe are expected to conduct more than 100 task group meetings during the event. We visited with the Association's standards development team to learn more about their process, its impact on the industry, and how you can get your voice heard. Nolan Johnson: Welcome, everyone, and thank you for joining us. Teresa, when you consider the skill set and personality required to work in standards devel- opment, what do you look for and why? BY NOLAN JOHNSON, I-CONNECT007 Teresa Rowe: It's curiosity, creativity, character, and courage. Standards developers, whether they are volunteers or staff liaisons, share the same passion for the electronics industry and a commitment to working together as a team to serve it. They may have knowledge of design, testing, manufacturing, or training, but they all want to provide the best infor- mation they can to the industry to provide industry- consensus documents that help build products that protect us and make our lives easier. ARTICLE EXCERPT Continue reading this article in the February 2026 issue of SMT007 Magazine