From Emerging Engineer to Industry Contributor: Waad Tarman’s Experience in Electronics Manufacturing, Mentorship, and APEX EXPO

Waad Tarman is a PhD student in Industrial and Systems Engineering at Auburn University, specializing in electronics manufacturing and solder joint reliability in BGA systems. Through her academic research and involvement as a Student Board Liaison with GEA, she has built strong connections between classroom learning and real-world industry applications. Seeking to further bridge that gap, Waad joined the Emerging Engineer Program and presented her research during the IPC APEX EXPO Technical Program—an experience that expanded her understanding of industry challenges, strengthened her professional network, and provided valuable mentorship opportunities. In this interview, she reflects on how these experiences have shaped her perspective, deepened her confidence, and influenced her future career aspirations in electronics manufacturing.

Charlene: Share a little background on yourself (A little bio would be perfect) and maybe something about the next steps, future plans, and aspirations.

Waad: I’m Waad Tarman, a PhD student in Industrial and Systems Engineering at Auburn University, focusing on electronics manufacturing and solder joint reliability, particularly in BGA systems. I’ve also been involved with GEA as a Student Board Liaison, which helped me connect more with the industry and the broader electronics manufacturing community. Moving forward, I’m looking to continue growing in this field and apply my research in meaningful ways.

Charlene: Briefly explain why you were interested in presenting a poster during the Technical Program? 

Waad: I wanted to present a poster because it’s a great way to share my work and get direct feedback from both industry professionals and researchers. It also gave me the opportunity to have real conversations about my research and see how it connects to real-world applications.

Charlene: Briefly explain why you were interested in the Emerging Engineer Program?  

Waad: I was interested in the Emerging Engineer Program because it offers a unique opportunity to connect with industry professionals, learn about current challenges in electronics manufacturing, and gain exposure beyond academia. It also felt like a great way to grow my network and better understand how my research fits into real-world applications

Charlene: What are the most valuable aspects of the Emerging Engineer Program?

Waad: Exposure to real industry challenges, and the mentorship component. Being able to connect directly with professionals and see how things are applied in practice really helped bridge the gap between research and real-world manufacturing.

Charlene: How important is mentorship in developing talent? What did you enjoy from the mentorship experience? What was difficult during the process?

Waad: I believe that mentorship is extremely important in developing talent as it gives direction, perspective, and real-world insight. What I enjoyed most was having honest conversations and getting advice from someone with industry experience. The challenging part was making the most out of a short time and asking the right questions, but overall it was a very valuable experience.

Charlene: What are the most valuable aspects during APEX EXPO?

Waad: The most valuable aspect for me was the networking and the exposure to real industry practices. Being able to interact with professionals, see the latest technologies, and connect my research to real applications made the experience really impactful.

Charlene: How important is exposure to these type of events in developing talent? What did you enjoy from the experience? What was difficult during the process?

Waad: Exposure to events like APEX is very important because it helps bridge the gap between what we study and what actually happens in the industry. It gives a clearer picture of real challenges and expectations. What I enjoyed the most was the conversations with professionals and getting different perspectives on my work. The challenging part was trying to take in so much information in a short time and making the most out of every interaction.

Charlene: Do you feel that the experience at APEX EXPO provided you with knowledge that can be valuable for your career progressions?

Waad: Yes, definitely. The experience gave me a better understanding of the industry and where my work fits in. I also had the chance to meet professionals and have meaningful conversations. I’m looking for an environment that supports growth, values innovation, and encourages collaboration. I’m interested in roles related to manufacturing, process improvement, or reliability.

Charlene: What’s your next step(s) in terms of professional growth and/or career aspirations?

Waad: My next step is to continue developing my research and technical skills while building stronger connections in the field. I also want to gain more hands-on experience and keep exploring opportunities that align with my interests in electronics manufacturing.

Charlene: Why would you recommend students consider career paths in electronics manufacturing?

Waad: I would recommend electronics manufacturing because it’s a dynamic field that directly impacts everyday technologies and offers a lot of opportunities to solve real, practical problems. Being part of the student chapter was very beneficial as it helped me build leadership skills, expand my network, and stay connected with industry. My advice to students is to get involved early, take on roles, and attend events like APEX; it really makes a difference in both your confidence and career direction.

Charlene: What has been the highlight of the APEX EXPO?

Waad: I had one direct interaction (among too many) with an industry professional through the program. The conversation, insight, and the overall exposure made the experience very personal and impactful, and it really helped me see the bigger picture of the field. And I believe something great is coming out of it.

Charlene: Please share three new things you’ve learned during your time at IPC APEX EXPO?

Waad:

1. A deeper understanding of current trends and challenges in electronics manufacturing.
2. How industry approaches problem-solving and decision-making in real applications.
3. The importance of communication and networking in building a successful engineering career.

Charlene: Please share a few sentences on what this experience meant to you personally?

Waad: This experience gave me confidence in my work and where I’m headed. It allowed me to step outside of my usual environment, connect with inspiring people, and see the real impact of what I’m doing. It also reminded me why I chose this field in the first place.