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PCB West 2021
- by Matt Stevenson

Our team just returned from Santa Clara, CA after the PCBWest show.  This was our first tradeshow in nearly two years and it was really good to see some of our customers, suppliers and design engineers.  The show gave me a feeling of almost normalcy and hope that things are getting better.   There were still a lot of covid related protocols to help keep everyone safe, but getting face to face with so many amazing people in one place was good for the soul.

PCBWest 2021 was a little smaller than it has been in recent years, a few less exhibitors, less in person attendees and the technical conferences were also paired back, but what it lacked in numbers it made up for in hope.  The electronics industry is moving forward at rapid paces and those at PCBWest exemplified fact.  Most of the people I talked to were interested in creating a solution for the challenges that are present in electronic manufacturing and not simply accepting them.  Parts shortages being one of the chief challenges that was impacting the workflow.  There was a lot of creativity on how engineers are adapting and overcoming and still able to meet deadlines.

In addition to the established manufacturers, material suppliers, CAD software companies and assembly houses that tend to dominate at PCBWest there were some bright spots as well. Several exhibitors that have been busy making improvements to the industry standard tools and practices.  New material suppliers, CAD software add-ons to drastically improve efficiency, additive and alternative manufacturing practices and even better versions of standard equipment.  There is a lot to be excited about in electronics today and moving to tomorrow.

PCBWest 2021 will be the year of Hope to me.  Domestic manufacturing is finding ways to solidify supply chains, innovate standard process, overcome and adapt to shortages, delays and other daily challenges.  The industry is going to be stronger and more resilient moving forward.  All of these really do make me hopeful for the future.