New chairman for association of PCB design engineers

Citation

(2000), "New chairman for association of PCB design engineers", Circuit World, Vol. 26 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/cw.2000.21726cab.003

New chairman for association of PCB design engineers

New chairman for association of PCB design engineers

Keywords: PCIF, ADE, Engineers

Martin Cotton, European Design Engineering Manager with PCB manufacturer Viasystems, has been appointed chairman of the UK's PCIF-affiliated Association of PCB Design Engineers (ADE). He takes over the role from Nigel Graham of Intercept Technologies.

In his current position with Viasystems, Cotton is responsible for liaison with OEM design groups, the focus of these activities being the introduction of new technologies. And with over 25 years experience as a PCB professional, he is well positioned to assist in planning design-to-manufacturing strategies. Since joining Viasystems, he has added two further patents to his name, both ground-breaking additions to the high density interconnect arena.

Prior to joining Viasystems, he was principal designer with Nortel, responsible for the conceptual design of PABX and other switching products.

Commenting on his appointment as ADE chairman, Cotton paid tribute to his predecessor's efforts in successfully guiding the association through its inaugural year. "Nigel and his team have done a tremendous job", he said. "They have undertaken the groundwork necessary to create a true 'member-serving' organisation, and I look forward to making my contribution over the coming 12 months."

An important part of that groundwork referred to by Cotton has been the establishment of a PCB design course and accreditation scheme, the aim of which is to ensure that individual designers are brought (and kept) "up to speed" when it comes to creating cost-effective, right-first-time designs. Apart from contributing to companies' competitiveness, the programme also helps those employers engaged in recruiting new designers pick the most capable individuals. And designers themselves benefit by having an industry-accepted qualification to add to their CVs.

The accreditation scheme is based, with permission, on the system used by US PCB trade association, IPC. The first graduates received their certification in December last year. Two courses have already been arranged for Spring this year: the first will be held in Newbury, Berkshire, on 15, 16 and 17 March; the second in Livingston, Scotland on 5, 6 and 7 April.

ADE currently has six separate "chapters" (North, South, North-East and West of England, Cambridge and Scotland), with more to follow as membership increases further. Programmes are decided locally, but typically include themes such as standards, materials, leading edge technologies, testing, and cost control. Also included are visits to PCB fabrication and assembly plants.

PCB designers, or individuals on the way to becoming one, or indeed any individuals working in the electronics industry who feel their effectiveness could be improved by belonging to ADE, are invited to contact the PCIF's Frank Coultard, Tel: +44 171-515 1166 who will be pleased to supply further information.