Inauguration of the MacDermid Alpha Center of Excellence in Electronics Assembly and Skills Development at IIT Madras

The MacDermid Alpha Center of Excellence in Electronics Assembly and Skills Development was formally inaugurated on 27th April 2023 by Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Hon’ble Minister of State for Electronics and Information Technology and Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Government of India. The inauguration ceremony was held in the presence of Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director, IIT Madras, alongside faculty, researchers, and representatives from MacDermid Alpha. Established at the Central Electronics Centre (CEC) of IIT Madras with the support of MacDermid Alpha, the Centre aims to advance India’s electronics manufacturing ecosystem. Equipped with a state-of-the-art Surface Mount Technology (SMT) line—including a Solder Paste Printer, Solder Paste Inspection System, Pick and Place Machine, Reflow Oven, and Automatic Optical Inspection System—the facility provides hands-on training infrastructure for PCB assembly processes. The Centre is designed to train approximately 1,000 engineers and diploma holders annually, with an apprenticeship program embedded as a core component. This initiative aligns with the broader vision set out by the Government of India to significantly expand the nation’s electronics manufacturing base. Speaking at the event, Dr. Ravi M. Bhatkal, Managing Director, India Element Solutions, Inc., highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts among academia, industry, and government to strengthen India’s electronics sector: “Our vision and partnership with IIT Madras is to help build the entire electronics manufacturing ecosystem on campus, to develop the workforce, productize innovations, and stimulate interdisciplinary research. The establishment of this Centre is a vital first step toward realizing that vision.” The MacDermid Alpha Centre of Excellence stands as a significant milestone in advancing technical education, skill development, and industry collaboration in electronics assembly technologies.