Brent Nolan and Stentech: Building the Future of Manufacturing in North America

Author: Joseph Arévalo

ADN, Mexico, Jan 14 2025. - ESPAGNOL VERSION: CLICK HERE

Shaping the Future of Manufacturing in North America

In a world where technology advances at a rapid pace, the electronic manufacturing industry faces increasingly complex challenges. From component miniaturization to the demand for more efficient processes, companies must adapt quickly to remain competitive. Against this backdrop, StenTech, a leader in solutions for the EMS and OEM industries, has shown that the perfect formula for success is the combination of technological innovation and human talent.

During a recent visit to StenTech's facilities in Guadalajara, Mexico, Joseph Arévalo, Managing Director of Algo de Nosotros, sat down with Brent Nolan, President of StenTech North America. They discussed how the company has positioned itself as a key industry player. This article delves into the main topics covered during the interview, supported by recent data and studies highlighting their significance.

StenTech’s Expansion in North America: A Problem-Solving Approach

With over 25 years of experience, StenTech has expanded its footprint across Canada, the United States, and Mexico through strategic acquisitions and continuous investment in cutting-edge technology. According to Brent Nolan, StenTech’s focus is not just on selling products but on being a problem-solver for its customers.

This aligns with a McKinsey & Company study, which found that 70% of manufacturing companies investing in customized technological solutions experience significant improvements in operational efficiency. StenTech has identified three primary challenges in the SMT market and developed innovative solutions to address them—ranging from high-precision stencil manufacturing to advanced coatings that reduce friction in printing processes.

The Role of Human Talent in Driving Innovation

While technology is fundamental, Brent Nolan emphasized that people are the true drivers of innovation. StenTech’s philosophy of “hiring for soft skills and training for hard skills” underscores its belief in the importance of passion and commitment alongside technical expertise.

This approach is supported by a Deloitte report, which revealed that 94% of manufacturing executives consider talent development crucial for maintaining competitiveness. StenTech promotes from within, ensuring that leaders and managers deeply understand the company’s culture and values. This strategy not only strengthens employee engagement but also fosters collaboration and creativity.

Technological Innovation: Advanced Coatings and Beyond

One of the most fascinating topics from the conversation was StenTech’s development of advanced coatings for stencils and pallets. The company has invested in technologies such as vapor deposition, which enables the application of coatings as thin as 200 nanometers. These coatings significantly reduce friction and improve solder paste transfer quality on PCBs.

A study in the Journal of Electronic Materials confirmed that nanostructured coatings can enhance solder paste transfer by up to 30%, reducing defects in SMT printing. Additionally, StenTech is working on a new pallet coating that prevents conformal coating adhesion, eliminating the need for manual cleaning and optimizing production processes.

Mexico’s Role in Global Electronic Manufacturing

Mexico has become a strategic hub for electronic manufacturing in North America. Recognizing this potential, StenTech has invested in modernizing its Guadalajara facility with state-of-the-art equipment, including high-precision lasers and advanced CNC machines.

This investment aligns with data from the Mexican Association of the Electronics Industry (AMIE), which reports that Mexico is the sixth-largest exporter of electronic products globally, with an annual growth rate of 8% over the past five years. StenTech’s efforts not only benefit the company but also strengthen the regional supply chain, providing customers with high-quality solutions and shorter delivery times.

The Future of the Industry: Collaboration and Sustainability

Brent Nolan highlighted that the future of the industry is not just about selling products but building long-term partnerships with customers. This means understanding their specific needs and delivering customized solutions that add real value.

Sustainability is also becoming increasingly relevant. StenTech is exploring ways to reduce waste in manufacturing processes, from efficient material use to implementing environmentally friendly technologies. In a global context where 60% of manufacturing companies adopt sustainable practices to lower their carbon footprint (according to the World Economic Forum), this is a critical focus area for the future.

The conversation between Joseph Arévalo and Brent Nolan made it clear that success in the electronic manufacturing industry hinges on two key pillars: technological innovation and human talent. StenTech exemplifies how companies can combine these elements to tackle current challenges and prepare for the future.

In a highly competitive world with ever-growing customer expectations, investing in advanced solutions and committed teams is not optional—it’s essential.