EMS@C-LEVEL Philip Spagnoli Stoten

Explore the power of diversity with insights from IPC President John Mitchell, filmed on location at APEX 2024. John explains why inclusion of diverse talent pools leads to proven benefits like profitability and innovation. John describes the intricacies of fostering diversity within our workforce, explaining how a mix of backgrounds and perspectives is akin to a potpourri that enlivens the senses and enriches our work environments. From gender diversity to hiring neurally diverse individuals, we uncover inspiring strategies that underscore diversity as a strategic business advantage.

We also dig into how IPC aids companies in nurturing an inclusive culture, including the success stories of organizations like Microboard and Pride Industries, who are actively embracing inclusivity. John and I share anecdotes of how IPC's accessible training materials and programs, such as the apprenticeship program, pave the way for transformative personal and professional growth, turning overlooked potential into star employees. 

Join John and me for an interview that celebrates diversity's impact on innovation and decision-making.
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.

India's electronics manufacturing landscape is changing at an unprecedented rate. In this interview I, Philip Stoten, chat with Colonel Sharath Kumar Bhat of Kane Technology India about why and how India is transforming itself into a manufacturing hub for the region and the world. We discuss the strides made by the Indian electronics sector, fueled by government initiatives and global mega trends like 5G, AI, and the EV revolution. Sharath sheds light on India's ascent to becoming a formidable force in the global manufacturing arena, navigating the opportunities and challenges that this journey presents. 

We also delve into Kane Technology's innovative strategies and their significant acquisition of Digicom in the US, underscoring their commitment to delivering end-to-end solutions from conception to service to a global market. He also share insights from his own journey, where military precision and a strategic approach to leadership have been pivotal. Sharath explains the importance of talent in the business, and of hiring global expertise while cultivating local talent, all key to sustaining their sector's growth. 

We close by celebrating the story of veterans like Colonel Sharath, whose military-honed skills in HR and attention to detail have proven invaluable in the corporate sphere.

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.

Discover the collaborative efforts promoting Europe's electronics manufacturing industry as I, Philip Stoten, sit with Xaver Feiner from Zollner and Thomas Michels from Ilfa at APEX 2024. Together we explore the complexities of uniting diverse trade associations and their role in advocating for the supply chain's significance to European governments. This episode offers insights into how these industry champions are influencing policy and fostering European solidarity in a post-pandemic world marked by supply chain vulnerabilities.

Thomas and Xaver spotlight the critical nature of printed circuit boards and electronic manufacturing services in the electronic supply chain. Together numerous associations are writing a collective letter to the European Parliament and national leaders proposing concerted actions to secure the industry's growth and resilience. 

Tune in to this discussion for a look at the collaborative front being presented to safeguard the future of Europe's electronic manufacturing landscape.
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.

APEX 24 Day Two Wrap - Koh Young Technology's Joel Scutchfield and EMSNOW Publisher Eric Miscoll share their insights on the industry, focussing on market trends, talent, automation and transformative power of collaborative innovation. Multiple discussions at APEX 2024 have provided a collective vision for an industry full of  connectivity, collaboration and synergy. Following numerous EMS@C-Level interviews, we discuss how CEOs are steering their companies toward open partnerships that blur traditional lines, all while leveraging the strengths of diverse solutions to create a more adaptable and efficient manufacturing landscape.

We pivot to the human element within the manufacturing industry, uncovering how artificial intelligence has potential to reshape some jobs in manufacturing. The emergence of higher-paying, more engaging and more sustainable jobs could help to attract a new generation into the sector, while automation relieves operators of monotonous tasks. This episode spotlights the need to elevate manufacturing's appeal to fresh talent, emphasizing the role of competitive wages and the value of operating cutting-edge robotics in creating a dynamic and fulfilling work environment.

This year companies are focussing on operational efficiency, as the navigate periods of excess capacity with innovative technologies. These strategies are not just survival tactics but catalysts for even greater success and growth in the years to come, allowing businesses to harness technology and automation and stay competitive and agile in anticipation of the next surge. Join us for a  conversation that illustrates the resilience and forward-thinking nature of industry leaders in the face of economic challenges.
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 enjoy a conversation with SMTC's EVP of Global Operations Mickey McCallion about synthesizing global operations in a company with many different equipment sets. We dig into the world of advanced manufacturing technology and uncover how SMTC is orchestrating the integration of diverse machinery and ERP systems through the  CFX platform and strategic partnerships. Mickey provides insights into the transformative potential of AI, the crucial role of automation, even in regions with lower wages, and how these powerful tools are reshaping the talent landscape and competitive dynamics within the industry.

We explore the absence of larger collaborative robots, or cobots, at APEX  and other a recent industry event, as Mickey points out what he has seen and how he brings a large team to these events to really explore technologies that can shift the needle in their facilities.

As EMS companies broaden their supply chain influence, we'll reveal how the integration of these sophisticated technologies is improving lean manufacturing, offering a  glimpse into an era of ever increasing efficiency.
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.

Explore the ever-evolving EMS industry with Jay Patel, CEO of Amtech, filmed on location at APEX24. This episode delivers a deep dive into high mix, low volume manufacturing, where Jay describes the strategies ensuring Amtech's robust customer loyalty and their approach to design collaboration, DFM, and supply chain. We also explore reshoring and how global geopolitics are reshaping the manufacturing landscape.

Share Jay's foresight of a leader as he shares his invaluable perspective on the importance of corporate culture that sits at the core of Amtech. Jay and I go onto to dig into the realities of talent acquisition,  automation, and their vital roles in steering a company forward. We also take a look toward the economic horizon of 2024, considering the agility and innovative spirit businesses must embrace to thrive amidst the disruptions of trade wars, pandemics and supply chain challenges. Jay underscores the importance of C-level networking, including at events organized by IPC, where sharing ambitions, challenges and industry predictions becomes a key part of strategic foresight. 
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.