EMS@C-LEVEL

Following the announcement of the Altimade solution and the news in 2021 that Altium were participating in MacroFab's most recent funding round, I caught up with Altium Chief Ecosystem Office Ted Pawela and MacroFab Chief Executive Officer Misha Govshteyn. In this 20 minute interview we explore the new solution and the importance of connecting the digital thread from design through manufacturing. EMS@C-Level is sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Manufacturing Autonomy Specialist CloudNC (https://www.cloudnc.com)Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

In the 2021 series I am talking to new executives as well as checking in with those I spoke to in the depths of the pandemic. In this interview I chat to Juan Arango, General Manager of Koh Young America, asking how the last year has been, the lessons learned from the COVID experience and what the recovery looks like. Koh Young have enjoyed some real growth in late 2020 and into 2021 and Juan shares his view on why that has happened. He also shares his insight into the future of manufacturing in the Americas and the importance of family and team to the success of the business. EMS@C-Level is sponsored in 2021 by leading inspection company Koh Young (www.kohyoung.com) and by CNC Autonomy Specialist CloudNC (www.cloudnc.com)Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

We seem to be moving from one supply chain disruption to another right now. The 2020 challenges of the pandemic caused demand for devices to fluctuate in a manner that can only be described as a roller-coaster ride, and now we have those devices in desperately short supply. I caught up with Season Group President and CEO Carl Hung to talk to him about disruption and the role of design in planning for and mitigating risk. We also explore lessons learned during the pandemic, globalization, China plus one, skill shortages, the future of EMS, and the importance of organizational culture. Lots to dig into in this 25 minute interview. EMS@C-Level is sponsored in 2021 by leading inspection company Koh Young (www.kohyoung.com) and by CNC Autonomy Specialist CloudNC (www.cloudnc.com)Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

This year has been a tough year for the supply chain, as was last year and the twenty or so before that! And so it goes... I interviewed Dennis Menefee, President and CEO of Partstat to explore their experiences and their solutions to the continued disruption of supply chains. Dennis explains why their offering isn't too good to be true and does work in practice. EMS@C-Level is sponsored in 2021 by leading inspection company Koh Young (www.kohyoung.com) and by CNC Autonomy Specialist CloudNC (www.cloudnc.com)Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

Back for its second season, EMS@C-Level kicks off 2021 with Bright Machines CEO and Co-founder Amar Hanspal exploring what lessons 2020 has taught him, Bright Machines and the Industry as a whole. Host and Forbes and Entrepreneur writer Philip Stoten unpacks Amar's vision for the future of the industry and the opportunity for the US to take a huge step forward in manufacturing technology and leapfrog many of their competitors to become a world leader. EMS@C-Level is sponsored in 2021 by leading inspection company Koh Young (www.kohyoung.com) and by CNC Autonomy Specialist CloudNC (www.cloudnc.com).Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

Following the news of their acquisition of PCB platform provider Electronic Fellows, I spoke to Luminovo founder Sebastian Schaal about their own progress as well as the strategy behind the acquisition. We also explore the role of AI in the digital transformation of the manufacturing, and more specifically, the EMS industry. EMS@C-Level is sponsored in 2021 by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Manufacturing Autonomy Specialist CloudNC (https://www.cloudnc.com)Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

Does a disruptive climate help or hinder women in the workplace? Has diversity improved in electronics? How's the manufacturing industry doing and what else can be done? These are just a few of the questions I put to Jackie Mattox, who founded Women in Electronics a little over four years ago with group of twenty like minded women. Their stated goals are to empower, develop, advocate and celebrate women in this largely dominated industry where those in power are far from reflective of those consumers buying the products. EMS@C-Level is sponsored in 2021 by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Manufacturing Autonomy Specialist CloudNC (https://www.cloudnc.com) If you haven't already, you should check out Jackie's podcast 'WE Radio' on your favorite podcast platform or at https://we.memberclicks.net/we-radioLike every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

With one disruption after another hitting the electronics manufacturing industry it's hard to know where to turn for a take on sentiment and mood as a whole. I turned to IPC's President and CEO John Mitchell, always a great source of knowledge and always happy to offer his own insight and opinion. In this 30 minute chat we explore digital transformation, government initiatives and EGS as well as chatting briefly about plans and expectations for APEX 2022 in January. EMS@C-Level is sponsored in 2021 by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Manufacturing Autonomy Specialist CloudNC (https://www.cloudnc.com)Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

Following the announcements of EMSNOW and IPC's North American EMS Research Study, I caught up with the ever-charming Eric Miscoll to explore the what, why, when, where and how of this bold and ambitious endeavor. In this short but informative session Eric explains the need for solid data on the size and shape of the North American Industry and just how companies can complete the survey, to be published later this year. You can read about the survey and participate at https://emsnow.com/emsnow-partners-with-ipc-launches-north-america-ems-research-study/Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

Celebrating 50 years in electronics, Elmatica is the oldest PCB broker in the world and is trusted by numerous companies to mange their PCB supply chain. In a world where one supply chain disruption seems to follow another, having a partner that's got you back in terms of sourcing would seem pretty smart. Elmatica's CEO Didrik Bech was in Wuhan at the beginning of last year, so we started by exploring his and Elmatica's experience then and throughout the pandemic. We also explored the role of sustainability, the development of more sophisticated supply chain tools and the importance of cybersecurity in the supply chain. EMS@C-Level is sponsored in 2021 by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Manufacturing Autonomy Specialist CloudNC (https://www.cloudnc.com)Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

In the first half of 2020, a difficult period for most, NOTE’s sales increased by 16%, operating profits by 31%, operating margin grew to 7.7%. In the last two years, the stock price has increased from around SEK 23 to over SEK 60. The man in charge throughout those two years has been Johannes Lind-Widestam. Here, industry commentator Philip Stoten talks to Johannes about the strategy that served them so well throughout 2018 and 2019 and has supported them through the pandemic.Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

In this time of disruption some supply chains have been tested and found lacking, other have been able to step up and make a positive difference. PCH International is one such company. Their asset light, expertise heavy operating model has been able to deliver PPE in vast quantities all over the world, including fulfilling a request from U2 lead singer Bono to provide PPE to hospitals in Ireland. Industry journalist, Philip Stoten, spoke to Liam from his home in Ireland and explore their pandemic experience, the future of the industry, driving more sustainable supply chains and much more.Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

COVID-19 has put leadership, team and talent under the microscope, with exceptional leadership steering companies through the stormy waters of supply, demand and workplace disruption. Industry journalist and writer Philip Stoten spoke to Audrey McGuckin, one of the EMS industry foremost experts on the development of leadership and talent to find out exactly what good leadership means to a business, how it can be developed, and the leadership qualities needed now and in the future. Audrey combines her deep domain expertise in leadership with an intimate knowledge of the EMS industry earned over several decade playing a pivotal role at the largest and most successful manufacturing companies in the world.Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

As Forbes and SCOOP writer, Philip Stoten, continues to talk to more EMS executives he learns more about their individual and collective experiences during the COVID-19 crisis. In this episode Philip is joined by Akhil Oltikar, founder and CEO of Supply Chain Technologists Omnics. Akhil has an impressive pedigree in supply chain and is seen as somewhat of an evangelist in the use of data and software to improve its management and improve performance and outcomes. Akhil worked with FLEX and Riverwood Solution before founding Omnics. The two explore Akhil's pandemic experience and explore how the crisis might accelerate digital transformation to assist with much needed supply chain adaptability, agility and resilience!Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

As Forbes and SCOOP writer, Philip Stoten, continues to talk to more EMS executives he learns more about their individual and collective experiences during the COVID-19 crisis. In this episode Philip is joined by Dr. Bill Cardoso, CEO of Creative Electron, one of the industry's leading manufacturers of x-ray equipment. Bill is considered an innovator and a leader in the field of x-ray technology and is on the board of the SMTA. They explore pandemic experiences and Bill explain how he returns to his in-garage roots to build a deployed manufacturing ecosystem to keep production going. They also explore the challenges of leadership in a crisis and the need for technology and digital transformation to help lead us to a more agile and resilient future.Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

As Forbes and SCOOP writer, Philip Stoten, continues to talk to more EMS executives he learns more about their individual and collective experiences during the COVID-19 crisis. In this episode her is joined by Markus Aschenbrenner of Zollner, the world's largest family owned EMS to discuss their experience of the pandemic and how they see the future. Digital transformation remains high on the agenda, with real-time data driving better visibility, agility and resilience.Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

Unlock the secrets of a thriving electronics manufacturing industry amidst economic headwinds as I, Philip Stoten, chat with the astute Shawn DuBravac, IPC's Chief Economist. In a world where supply chain woes loom large and political shifts dictate strategic maneuvers, our discussion reveals how North American markets are not just surviving but also innovating. You'll gain insider perspectives on how U.S. and Mexican election years are influencing investment decisions, and understand the transformative responses to labor shortages, including the  role of IPC's training initiatives. Discover the undercurrents reshaping trade relationships, with Mexico emerging as the lead player, and glean insights into the robust trajectories powering the defense and electric vehicle sectors through uncertain times.Filmed on the last day APEX 2024 and before his closing keynote, Shawn provides a sneak peek into the future of electronics partnerships. The episode captures the essence of innovation as we discuss how suppliers are now the linchpins of progress, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in technology. Join us for a riveting exchange that not only navigates the economic and market intricacies but also celebrates the collaborative spirit and groundbreaking developments ushering in the next era of electronics manufacturing.Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

Discover the engine driving Microboard's  growth as I, Philip Stoten, sit down with Owner and CEO Nicole Russo at Apex 2024 to share the strategies that have fortified client relationships and spurred innovation. We navigate the complexities of supply chain upheaval, discuss how financial acumen and cutting-edge tech are revolutionizing operations, and reveal how diversity in the workforce—bolstered by automation and upskilling—strengthens the backbone of Microboard's expansion.Hear how strategic foresight and selective partnerships have kept Microboard's sails full in the choppy waters of the EMS sector. We dissect their commitment to sectors like defense, medical, and telecom, and how these shield them from the industry's  inventory bubbles. Hear first-hand from Nicole about the impact of global events on the demand for defense products, and how incidents, like the one involving Damar Hamlin, surge interests in markets such as AEDs. This episode, filmed on location at APEX24, offers a deep dive into the symbiosis of OEM relationships and Microboard's future-directed vision for growth.Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

Learn about the upcoming EMSNOW and in4ma On Tour that will explore Tunisia's electronics manufacturing sector as I, Philip Stoten, alongside industry gurus Eric Miscoll and Dieter Weiss, examine the  dynamics at play in North Africa and the United States. Our conversation at APEX 2024 bridges continents, unveiling Tunisia's cost-competitive edge, a burgeoning talent pool, and the strategic shifts reshaping the American EMS industry. Listen as we unravel the EMS market's fabric, contrasting the high-volume of global giants with the agile bastions of small US businesses. We dissect the pivotal role of location in nurturing customer intimacy and the indispensable nature of benchmark data in steering industry fortitude. Eric and Dieter not only provide a panoramic vista of industry trends but also chart a course for navigating the complex currents of global expansion.Filmed on location at APEX24.Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.

I sit down with Chris, the  CTO of Worthington Assembly at APEX 2024 and explore the significance of a highly skilled workforce in maintaining technical excellence within the industry. Chris's insights offer a  glimpse into the  operations of Worthington Assembly, where their team's expertise is not just a foundation but a magnet attracting long-term customer partnerships, especially prized in sectors like medical devices. Chris details how customers find themselves committed to the value of technical precision and the collaborative design process that Worthington Assembly provides.As the conversation steers towards the complexities of supply chain and obsolescence issues, we shed light on the innovative strategies that keep production lines running amidst supply chain disruption. We touch on the driving forces behind the surge in automation and AI in manufacturing, exploring how they are reshaping the landscape of efficiency and precision. We also touch on the valuable work Chris does to create his podcast "Pick, Place, Podcast", which you can find wherever you get your podcasts or at https://www.pickplacepodcast.com. Chris explains that this passion project is also a training resource for his team and new recruits to the industry.Filmed on location at APEX 2024.Like every episode of EMS@C-Level, this one was sponsored by global inspection leader Koh Young (https://www.kohyoung.com) and Adaptable Automation Specialist Launchpad.build (https://launchpad.build).You can see video versions of all of the EMS@C-Level pods on our YouTube playlist.