2025 Year in Review: Building the Future of Electronics

Uncategorized Jan 26, 2026

At the Electronics Foundation, 2025 was a year of momentum, growth, and meaningful impact. From expanding student opportunities to strengthening industry connections, this year’s achievements reflect our continued commitment to developing the next generation of electronics professionals.

As we look back, we’re proud to share the milestones, stories, and impact that defined our year.

Empowering Students Through Scholarships & Awards

In 2025, the Electronics Foundation awarded over $94,000 in scholarships and awards, directly supporting students pursuing careers in electronics and engineering.

$52,000 in Member Scholarships awarded to 52 students across leading universities
$10,000 in Student Leadership Awards
$30,000+ supporting student participation at IPC APEX EXPO
$2,000 awarded through the Michael Carano Teacher Excellence Awards

These investments not only recognize achievement—they open doors for students to continue their education and grow within the industry.

Celebrating Excellence in Education

We were honored to recognize outstanding educators through the Michael Carano Teacher Excellence Award. These educators are making a lasting impact by preparing students with real-world skills and opportunities in electronics manufacturing.

Their dedication reinforces a critical part of our mission: bridging the gap between education and industry.

Supporting the Next Generation at IPC APEX EXPO

Through our support of IPC APEX EXPO, students gained invaluable exposure to the electronics manufacturing industry.

Highlights include:

Best Student Technical Paper and Poster awards
Travel grants enabling student attendance
Direct access to industry leaders and innovation

These experiences give students a front-row seat to the future of electronics—and a place in it.

Expanding Hands-On Learning with STEM Kits

Hands-on experience remains at the core of what we do.

In 2025:

1,500+ Soldering STEM Kits distributed
Reached 19 schools nationwide
2,445 kit orders received
On track to reach 5,000 kits delivered by 2026

These kits give students the opportunity to build confidence, develop technical skills, and explore career pathways in electronics.

Growing Our Global Student Network

Our student community continues to thrive:

100+ active student chapters
Partnerships with 103 academic institutions worldwide

Through chapter events, guest speakers, plant tours, and hands-on workshops, students are gaining direct exposure to the electronics industry.

Strengthening Student Engagement & Leadership

Student leadership is a driving force behind our impact.

From chapter presidents to our Student Board Liaison, students are:

Leading initiatives
Organizing events
Competing in industry challenges
Building connections with professionals

Their involvement ensures the future of the industry is not only skilled—but inspired.

Launching the Electronics Foundation Honor Society

2025 marked the launch of the Electronics Foundation Honor Society, recognizing exceptional students for:

Academic achievement
Leadership
Industry involvement

This program elevates top talent and strengthens the pathway from education to career.

Expanding Awareness & Industry Reach

Our mission to raise awareness of electronics careers reached new heights:

280,000+ individuals reached through marketing efforts
222,000+ website views
37,000+ social media engagements

By increasing visibility, we’re helping more students discover opportunities in electronics—and envision themselves in these careers.

Looking Ahead

None of this impact would be possible without the support of our partners, sponsors, educators, and industry leaders.

As we move into 2026, we remain focused on:

Expanding student access
Strengthening industry connections
Scaling hands-on learning opportunities

Together, we are building a stronger, more connected pipeline of talent for the electronics industry.

Want to be part of the impact? Partner with us, support our programs, or help us reach more students.