C:\Users\MGL1\Pictures\MTG-1.jpgWelcome to the Institute of Circuit Technology
by
Martin Goosey
ICT Chairman

The Institute of Circuit Technology (ICT) was founded in1974, at a time when the first website was still 17 years away. Since then, there have been tremendous advances and changes in the electronics industry and, in particular, for the Printed Circuit Board (PCB) industry, which has seen a significant shift in its demographics. However, despite the recent worldwide financial problems and their impacts on manufacturing, it is important to remember that the PCB industry will continue to grow in size.  With current global PCB production being valued at over $50 billion, this is an industry with a healthy future and a veracious appetite for new technology. Although the majority of PCB production is now situated in the Far East, the Institute and its members still represent an important component of this globally significant manufacturing activity and in areas that are often of strategic importance to the UK.  There is thus a clear need for an organisation such as the ICT and I am proud that it is able to play a key role in providing opportunities for education, technical dissemination and networking on all matters concerned with printed circuit board and related interconnect technology.

In recent years, the Institute has seen sustained growth in its membership, which now stands at in excess of 220 members.  This growth has enabled the ICT to become a truly independent organisation with a sound financial base and which also means it can offer real and improving benefits for all its members.  Examples of the services provided included an expanded range of free evening seminars, an annual symposium, an annual foundation course and a quarterly technical journal.  I am particularly pleased that the Journal of the Institute of Circuit Technology is now firmly established and currently well into its third published volume.  The Journal provides access to key technical papers, as well as news and views from our industry.  It is open to everyone in terms of content submission and I would like to encourage you to submit your contributions

The Institute also offers a truly national coverage and representation and is keen to recruit additional new members, especially from the PCB design community as well as, of course, from the established PCB fabrication and supply sectors.  In conclusion, I hope that you find the Institute’s website of interest and if you are not already a member of the ICT please consider joining us.

Martin Goosey
ICT Chairman