Electronics Interconnect Technologies Forum launched

In a move which will raise the profile of the Australian printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing industry, the chief executives of Australia's six major PCB companies have launched the Interconnect Technologies Forum (ITF).

The ITF, formerly known as the Australian Printed Circuit Manufacturers' Association, is a forum of the Australian Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers' Association (AEEMA).

According to George Edwards, ITF Chairman and Chief Executive of Sydney-based Morris Productions, the new name reflected a more current, outward looking focus.

"We are excited and optimistic about the road ahead," Mr Edwards said. "This group will focus not only on interconnect technologies, but on interconnection in the context of co-operation with other organisations throughout the electronics industry supply chain."

Mr Edwards, who is also a member of the electronics industry Action Agenda Strategic Leaders Group, said that Forum members intended to provide constructive and valuable input into the electronics industry Action Agenda process.

"To compete globally, you have to do business globally. This group is serious about its future, and the future of the Australian electronics industry," Mr Edwards said. "It aims to understand where its opportunities lie and what its strengths are. Collaborating in areas of complementary capabilities will in turn enable sustainable growth - not only of this sector, but of the entire electronics industry in Australia."

The ITF has agreed in principle to the following:

• Australia's future will be shaped by the application of innovative technologies through all industries.
• Electronics is a key enabling technology. Its usage is pervasive and fundamental to all enterprise.
• For Australia to progress and take advantage of its natural resources and skills base, the environment in which the electronics industry can develop needs to be invigorated.
• Success will be achieved by: collaborative activity amongst all stakeholders in the electronics industry supply chain, an aggressive export focus, and a commitment to increasing levels of research and development.

In this context, the ITF will:

• Commit in principle to working together towards a whole-of-industry agenda.
• Actively pursue a balanced participation in the Australian electronics industry to satisfy current and future requirements in interconnect technologies.
• Seek to promote the interconnect technologies sector's capability and standing in the electronics industry.
• Explore, develop and review opportunities in export markets where collaborative commercial activity can be maximised.