IPC - Global Electronics Association

What is IPC?

Global Electronics Association is an international industry organization headquartered in Chicago, USA, that works in the interest of the broader electronics industry worldwide. The organization was founded in 1957 as the Institute of Printed Circuits - hence its first name, IPC. Today, it has offices in the USA and other countries, including China, Japan, India, Germany, and Belgium. As technology developed and the scope of activities expanded, in 1999 it adopted the name Association Connecting Electronics Industries, which better reflected its broader range of operations.[1]

Since June 2025, IPC has officially adopted its new name: Global Electronics Association. The decision was approved by the organization's board, recognizing that the original name no longer reflected the full spectrum of its activities.[1]

Scope of Activities

• IPC Standards. This is one of the best things that could have been done for the electronics industry: creating standards that provide uniform requirements, recommendations, and criteria across the industry. Thanks to IPC standards, customers and suppliers speak the same language. These standards are solid, built on knowledge and industry experience. They are developed by volunteers from electronics companies and are updated every few years. There are many standards, but in my opinion the "flagships" are: IPC-A-600, IPC-A-610, IPC/WHMA-A-620, IPC/J-STD-001, and of course - the entire IPC-222x series.
• Education and Certification. GEA (IPC) offers a wide range of training related to IPC standards, including certification programs for specialists: Certified IPC Specialist (CIS), trainers: Certified IPC Trainer (CIT), Master IPC Trainer (MIT), as well as experts: Certified Standards Expert (CSE). For electronics designers, the Certified Interconnect Designer (CID) and CID+ certifications are also available.[2]
• Research and Market Analysis. The organization publishes reports on the electronics market, analyzing current trends, opportunities and threats, as well as issues related to legal regulations and supply chain resilience against disruptions.
• Supply Chain Support and Advocacy. GEA advocates for sensible government regulations and reporting requirements, working to ensure companies in the electronics industry can operate effectively. The organization highlights to policymakers that innovation, workforce skills, and a common-sense approach to sustainability are key to long-term success.[3]

GEA Vision and Mission

The Global Electronics Association has published its new vision:[1]

"Better Electronics for a Better World"

and mission:[1]

"Global Electronics Association promotes industry growth and strengthens supply chain resilience"

We can see that the vision and mission focus on supporting the entire electronics ecosystem through the development of standards, education, market analysis, and effective industry representation on the international stage. The organization strives to strengthen supply chain resilience, promote innovation, and highlight the importance of electronics in the global economy.

Summary

IPC has changed its name to the Global Electronics Association to better reflect its broad scope of activities. A new vision and mission have been defined, signaling stronger advocacy, better analysis, and more effective collaboration with partners—all to better support the development of the global electronics industry.

It is worth noting that the IPC name remains unchanged for standards and certifications, as these products are trusted and recognized worldwide.