In planning your agenda for IPC Printed Circuits Expo/APEX/Designers Summit, February 18 – 22 in Los Angeles, consider attending some of these highlighted programs. Look for more APEX news online leading up to the conference.

IPC's EMS Management Council Meeting will host "CEO to CEO Benchmarking," February 19, an informative networking forum for EMS executives. The session will focus on global competition, outsourcing, and inventory issues such as RoHS conversion. Executives will examine recent mergers and acquisitions, especially with regards to impact on the electronics manufacturing industry. Participants will also review a survey taken by EMS companies on projected 2007 revenue, RoHS compliance and production, and consignment business. A roundtable discussion and VIP dinner will close the session. For information on joining "CEO to CEO Benchmarking," contact Susan Filz, IPC industry programs project manager.

APEX will host the U.S. debut of IPC's "Process Advice & Defect Clinic," opening February 20. Bob Willis, clinic coordinator, Electronic Presentation Services, will share expertise and test-and-inspection equipment used to solve process problems. Willis will also respond to queries received via email on the exhibition floor. The participant that presents the most interesting or perplexing problem will receive a set of interactive lead-free training materials and other prizes. All clinic visitors will be awarded a process defect guide.

For more information on upcoming APEX events, visit www.goIPCshows.org.