When I started at AIM Solder in 1997, the electronics industry looked very different. Phones were bigger, computers were bulkier, and most manufacturing was done in a handful of key regions. Fast forward to today, and everything has changed. Electronics keep getting smaller and more powerful, manufacturing has expanded across the globe, and supply chains have been pushed to their limits.
Through it all, one thing has stayed the same: manufacturers need reliable materials, trusted suppliers, and strong partnerships. That’s never been more true than it is now.
An Industry That Never Stands Still
Electronics manufacturing moves fast. New technologies, tighter designs, and tougher reliability standards mean the materials used today may not be enough for tomorrow’s products.
Take automotive, aerospace, and medical electronics—these industries need solder alloys that can handle extreme conditions without failing. At the same time, sustainability is becoming more important. Stricter environmental regulations are pushing companies to rethink materials, reduce waste, and improve energy efficiency.
And then there’s the shift in where manufacturing is happening. Growth in places like Mexico, Southeast Asia, India, and Eastern Europe means that companies need suppliers who can provide local support and fast deliveries. The demand for high-reliability materials, fine-particle solder pastes, and sustainable options isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
A Stronger Supply Chain
If you work in manufacturing, you know how hard the past few years have been. Supply chain problems have caused delays and shortages across the industry.
For a factory, a supply chain issue isn’t just an inconvenience—it means stalled production, missed deadlines, and financial losses. That’s why companies are looking beyond just product quality. They need suppliers that can deliver on time, adapt when needed, and plan ahead to avoid disruptions.
At AIM, we’ve worked hard to build resilience into our supply chain. We have manufacturing throughout Asia and Europe and are the only solder company with factories in all three North American countries, which is more important than ever. Having multiple manufacturing sites worldwide allows us to shift production when needed, minimizing disruptions. We’ve also strengthened supplier relationships and diversified sourcing strategies to ensure steady access to critical raw materials. These steps help us deliver on time, even in difficult market conditions.
Innovation That Moves the Industry Forward
At AIM, our goal is to move the industry forward by investing in:
- Advanced soldering materials for next-generation electronics, including fine-particle pastes and high-reliability alloys.
- Sustainable solutions that align with stricter environmental standards without compromising performance.
- Stronger global support to meet the needs of an expanding electronics market.
The work being done in our global applications labs, research collaborations, and industry partnerships is shaping the next generation of soldering materials. As part of industry groups like iNEMI, IPC, and SMTA, we’re keeping a close eye on emerging trends and helping drive innovation.
The Future
As someone who has spent 25+ years watching this industry evolve, I can say with confidence that we are in one of the most transformative periods yet. The challenges are real, but so are the opportunities. And for those who plan ahead, invest wisely, and focus on long-term stability, the future is bright.
I can’t wait to see what’s next.
David Suraski
Executive Vice President, Assembly Materials
AIM Solder
Learn more about David Suraski in this SMT Today Interview from June 2024.
Read David Suraski’s 2025 Industry Predictions in EDACafe.
