AUSTIN, TX ― March 2026 ― Kodiak Assembly Solutions LLLP, a leading electronics contract manufacturer, today announced a strategic initiative to strengthen its PCB supply chain through partnerships with U.S.-based manufacturers, helping customers navigate increasing material constraints driven by rapid growth in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure.

As global demand for AI hardware accelerates, the electronics industry is experiencing growing pressure on key PCB materials, including laminates, copper foil, and high-performance substrates. Much of this demand is being driven by large-scale data center expansion and next-generation computing platforms, shifting supply priorities toward high-layer, low-loss materials used in AI and server applications.

These shifts are contributing to longer lead times, rising material costs, and reduced availability of standard PCB materials across the broader market.

In response, Kodiak Assembly Solutions has taken a proactive approach by aligning with domestic PCB manufacturing partners to help maintain supply continuity and reduce risk for its customers.

“We’re seeing real changes in how PCB materials are being allocated across the industry,” said John Kampfer, President, Kodiak Assembly Solutions. “By strengthening our relationships with U.S.-based suppliers, we’re in a better position to support our customers with more predictable lead times and greater supply stability.”

This approach allows Kodiak to provide customers with more resilient sourcing options at a time when global supply chains are becoming increasingly constrained. In addition to mitigating risk, domestic partnerships can also offer improved communication, faster response times, and greater flexibility in managing changing production requirements.

While demand tied to AI and advanced computing is expected to remain strong through at least late 2026, Kodiak is working closely with customers to plan ahead and adapt to changing market conditions.

“Clear forecasting and early engagement are more important than ever,” added Kampfer. “We’re encouraging customers to plan builds in advance and work closely with our team so we can secure materials and keep production on track.”

Kodiak Assembly Solutions continues to monitor market conditions and collaborate with its supplier network to ensure customers are supported with reliable, high-quality PCB sourcing and assembly services.

For more information about Kodiak Assembly and its electronic contract manufacturing services, visit www.kodiakassembly.com.

SANTA ANA, CA ― March 2026 ― Express Manufacturing, Inc. (EMI), a global electronics manufacturing services (EMS) provider, has expanded its inspection capabilities with the addition of the ATHENA 3D AOI system from PEMTRON. The investment is focused on improving product quality, accelerating throughput, and delivering more consistent results for customers.

The ATHENA platform introduces AI-based inspection features including automatic judgment, auto-teaching, and optical character recognition (OCR), reducing setup time and minimizing operator dependency. This allows EMI to move more efficiently from new product introduction into production while maintaining consistent inspection standards.

For customers, this translates into faster ramp times, fewer defects, and greater confidence in product quality across builds.

ATHENA’s 12-way projection design reduces shadowing and supports highly accurate 3D measurement, while simultaneous 2D and 3D inspection enables detailed analysis at resolutions down to 10 microns. These capabilities improve defect detection across increasingly complex assemblies, helping prevent issues before they move further into production.

“The addition of ATHENA is about delivering better outcomes for our customers,” said Jason Chin, Principal at Express Manufacturing, Inc. “It allows us to catch issues earlier, improve consistency, and keep production moving efficiently—especially on complex builds where precision matters most.”

The system is also designed for high-throughput environments, with an optional 12MP camera and three-stage conveyor that support faster inspection speeds without compromising accuracy. This enables EMI to maintain tight quality control while meeting demanding production schedules.

With facilities in the United States, China, and Vietnam, EMI supports customers across a wide range of industries, including military, aerospace, green energy, gaming, aviation, medical, oil and gas, telecommunications, high-end computing, industrial controls, and test and measurement. The addition of ATHENA further strengthens EMI’s ability to deliver reliable, high-quality products at scale.

“Our customers rely on us for consistency and responsiveness,” added Chin. “This investment helps us do both—improving quality while keeping pace with their timelines.”

For more information about Express Manufacturing, Inc. (EMI), email info@eminc.com or visit www.eminc.com.

TORRANCE, CA — March 2026 — Seika Machinery, Inc., a leading provider of advanced machinery, materials and engineering services, is pleased to announce a limited-time Post-APEX Spring Sale, offering special pricing on a selection of in-stock equipment and trade show demonstration units. Available while supplies last, the promotion provides manufacturers with an opportunity to acquire high-quality systems at reduced pricing with immediate availability.

The sale includes a mix of new, in-stock systems and lightly used demonstration units that were displayed at recent industry events. All equipment has been maintained to meet performance expectations, offering a cost-effective option for manufacturers looking to expand or upgrade their production capabilities without long lead times.

Featured systems in the Spring Sale include McDry humidity-controlled storage solutions such as the SC-500H, SC-5000GUS, DXU-1001A, and MCU-201A models. These systems are designed to protect moisture-sensitive components and materials, supporting compliance with industry standards and improving product reliability.

Additional equipment available as part of the promotion includes select Sawa cleaning systems and related solutions, such as the SC-AH100E-LV Ecobrid model and the SH-SA1 economy model, as well as practical production support equipment including double reel racks and the MB-301-60 baking oven. These systems are well-suited for electronics manufacturing environments seeking dependable, efficient solutions for cleaning, storage, and material handling.

“This is a great opportunity for customers to take advantage of equipment that is ready to ship and priced to move,” said Michelle Ogihara, Executive VP, Seika Machinery. “Following APEX, we have a range of high-quality systems available, and we’re offering special pricing to help customers put them to work quickly.”

Quantities are limited, and availability will be based on current inventory. Customers are encouraged to contact Seika Machinery directly for detailed pricing, availability, and specifications.

For more information, contact Michelle Ogihara at 310-540-7310; e-mail michelle@seikausa.com; or visit www.seikausa.com.

Mill Creek, WA – March 2026 – MaRCTech2 is pleased to announce the addition of Kiersten Kreusser as a Solutions Expert Outside Sales Representative, effective April 1, 2026. In this role, she will support customers throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington, further strengthening MaRCTech2’s presence in the Pacific Northwest.

Kreusser brings a strong background in account management along with technical experience in the aerospace, defense, and materials testing industries. Her experience working in highly regulated, precision-driven environments aligns well with MaRCTech2’s focus on supporting advanced electronics manufacturing customers.

“We are excited to welcome Kiersten to the MaRCTech2 team,” said Jennifer Eby, President of MaRCTech2. “Her ability to understand complex customer requirements, along with her focus on communication and follow-through, will be a valuable asset to our customers and partners in the region.”

Known for her customer-focused approach, Kreusser emphasizes clear communication, accountability, and long-term relationship building. She works closely with OEMs and EMS providers to help identify and implement solutions that meet demanding design and manufacturing requirements.

“I’m excited to join MaRCTech2 and support customers throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington,” said Kreusser. “I look forward to building strong partnerships and helping customers succeed with the right solutions and support.”

Fore more information, visit www.marctech2.com.