Ipc industry executive conference features forecasts, materials issues and executive sessions

Revealing the latest trends in critical areas such as materials, end markets and disruptive technologies, the event will feature forecasts and industry analyses from noted experts on industry markets, technologies and management. Most importantly, industry executives will find solutions in targeted breakout discussion sessions organized by market segment, including PCB manufacturing, electronics manufacturing services (EMS) and suppliers.

“The Executive Summit is the industry’s premier annual event for executives,” according to Don Schroeder, chairman of IPC’s Executive Market & Technology Steering Committee, and CTS executive vice president and general manager of CTS’ EMS business unit. “In a fast-moving two days, we will hear about the latest technology and business trends from the experts, plus have ample opportunity to meet with colleagues,” he adds.

To kick off the event, Consumer Electronics Association chief economist Shawn DuBravac, and a panel of economic forecasters in the PCB and EMS industries, will address the general session with detailed industry analyses on economic trends, opportunities and expectations.

The afternoon will be dedicated to breakout sessions tailored to address the specific concerns of EMS, PCB and supplier executives. Topics for PCB executives include transitioning end markets, and the gamut of materials issues, from shortages to both environmental and ethical restrictions. The EMS agenda will cover traceability of counterfeit components, vertical integration and employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs). PCB suppliers will hear about positioning for the upturn, the impact of printed electronics and an OEM’s expectations of its suppliers.

Day two of the Summit will feature Rick Pierson, a senior analyst with iSuppli, on the impact of materials shortages; Leonard Livschitz, CEO of Luxera Inc., and Orville Brown, senior research scientist with Ferro Electronic Material Systems, on the opportunities in the value chain for the next wave of high-brightness light-emitting diodes; Phil Plonski, managing partner of Prismark Partners, discussing core enabling process technologies driving innovation; and Jim Fuller, vice president of PWB engineering at Endicott Interconnect Technologies, on new advancements in miniaturization. Additionally, Fern Abrams, IPC director of government relations and environmental policy, will provide an update on the status of environmental policies and regulations around the world, and Sharon Starr, IPC director of market research, will share insights from a new study on electronics technology trends.

Designed to help senior level company leaders make critical decisions, the event offers executives valuable opportunities to network with industry leaders, peers, customers and suppliers. Additionally, an optional golf outing at The Club at PGA West on October 12 promises a beautiful venue for relationship building and idea generation.

For more information or to register for the IPC Executive Summit: Ideas for a Bright Future In the New Electronics Industry, visit www.ipc.org/Executive-Summit.