If you were to peel back the layers of a modern electronic system, such as a satellite transceiver, a LiDAR module, or a 5G base station, you would not immediately notice a specific component doing some of the most important work. It doesn’t amplify signals, emit light, or process data, yet without it, none of those functions would be stable, reliable, or scalable. That component is the active device submount.

If you work in surface mount assembly, EMS, or anywhere along the electronics supply chain, you probably think of tariffs as something that happens upstream: raw materials, bulk commodities, maybe the occasional headache with Chinese imports. Steel and aluminum tariffs? That’s someone else’s problem. Not anymore. On April 2, President Trump signed a sweeping new proclamation that fundamentally restructures how Section 232 “national security” tariffs apply to steel, aluminum, copper, and their derivative products. The changes took effect on April 6, and the ripple effects are headed straight for the electronics industry.

Stay current with design, manufacturing, and quality standards by enrolling in one of these online instructor-led courses starting in June and July from ElectronicsU at the Global Electronics Association, designed to help professionals at every level sharpen their skills and advance their careers. These live, expert-led sessions combine flexibility with real-time interaction, allowing participants to learn directly from seasoned industry professionals while collaborating with peers worldwide. Access to all applicable IPC standards is included in the courses.