About Us
Our vision is to develop a pipeline of new talent entering the electronics industry.
The Electronics Foundation (previously known as the IPC Education Foundation) is a nonprofit organization committed to developing the next generation of electronics industry professionals.
Established by the Global Electronics Association, Electronics Foundation focuses on creating awareness of career opportunities in the electronics industry, connecting students with industry leaders, and supporting STEM education through hands-on experiences, scholarships, and educational resources.
By collaborating with schools, universities, and companies, the Foundation aims to build a robust talent pipeline and inspire students to pursue rewarding careers in advanced manufacturing and engineering.
Our Impact
Student Chapters
Thousands of students worldwide
Located at colleges, universities, and high schools across the globe, student chapters build community and connect students to careers in electronics manufacturing.
 Scholarships Awarded
Hundreds of individuals awarded since 2019
We invest in future talent by awarding financial support to students pursuing electronics and engineering-related degrees and educators who educate these students.
Students Reached
Thousands engaged across programs
From online resources to industry tours, our programs have impacted thousands of students, providing hands-on learning, industry connections, and career preparation in electronics and engineering.
Our Sponsors
Electronics Foundation is powered by Global Electronics Association
Interested in becoming a sponsor?
Thank you for your commitment to strengthening the future of the electronics industry. Your partnership with the Electronics Foundation represents more than sponsorship — it is a strategic investment in workforce development, student opportunity, and long-term industry growth. We look forward to partnering with you.
Let’s build the future — together.
Learn MoreMeet the Team
Charlene Gunter
Senior Director of Electronics Foundation
Charlene joined the Global Electronics Association (formerly known as IPC) in 2018 and now leads the Electronics Foundation, bringing nearly two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership and program development. She has a strong background in strategic partnerships, fundraising, marketing, and creating impactful educational initiatives. Through her work, Charlene connects with schools and universities to build a talent pipeline for the electronics industry, while overseeing student chapters, scholarships, and workforce development programs.
She holds an MPhil in Entrepreneurship and multiple degrees and certificates in writing, leadership, and business communication. Outside of work, Charlene enjoys traveling with her husband—having visited 27 U.S. states and 29 countries—as well as cooking, photography, and interior design.
Gentry Manning
Marketing Manager
Gentry began working with the Global Electronics Association (formerly known as IPC) in 2018 as a contractor to help build the Electronics Foundation (formerly known as IPC Education Foundation) website and officially joined full-time in 2021 as the Marketing Manager. In her role, she oversees the Foundation’s website, branding, marketing strategies, and event promotion—driving engagement and visibility for programs that inspire the next generation of electronics industry professionals.
With a degree in English/Technical Communication from Utah State University and several years of freelance web management experience, Gentry brings a unique blend of creativity and technical know-how to her work. Outside the office, she’s an adventurous traveler and thrill-seeker, always looking for her next unforgettable experience with her husband and two daughters.
Kailey Rubinas
Student Engagement Manager
Kailey Rubinas is based in Chicago and brings eight years of experience in higher education administration and student advising. Most recently, she supported international students at University of Illinois Chicago through Shorelight. She has led recruitment initiatives, academic intervention strategies, and student engagement efforts.
In her previous role as Assistant Academic Operations Director, Kailey specialized in leveraging data to drive informed decision-making and applying strong project management skills to increase student retention and support program expansion. She looks forward to contributing these strengths as the Student Engagement Manager for the Electronics Foundation and is excited to be part of the Global Electronics Association team.
