Welcome to the fifth article in our "EPTAC Team Spotlight" series. In this piece, we are having a discussion with Carol Stirling, a Master Instructor and Certified Quality Trainer in soldering. Carol shares how her hands-on experience in the field has shaped her teaching approach at EPTAC. We will hear about her transition from working in aerospace to teaching, the challenges and successes she has encountered along the way, and the supportive environment at EPTAC. Carol's practical insights into the world of soldering and her experiences with EPTAC are sure to offer valuable perspectives for professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Can you share the personal motivation or passion that drove you to teach and mentor individuals in the field of soldering?
In this modern age, the reliability of the solder connection is everything. I worked in aerospace the last part of my working career; I never forgot the product we built affected the souls flying above us and my small responsibility for their safekeeping. This is my motivation.
I never forgot that the product we built affected the souls flying above us and my small responsibility for their safekeeping.
How do you believe your background and experience have prepared you to effectively teach and guide others in acquiring soldering skills?
I’ve worked in the electronics industry for many years, starting back in the days of through-hole parts with printed circuit boards manufactured in-house, with unsupported holes and no idea what electrostatic discharge (ESD) was. That may make me a dinosaur, but I’ve gained a world of experience in transitioning to supported holes, modern finishes like ENIG, surface mount technology, and many more processes. My experience working in production, then expanding my field of experience with college classes, helps me to relate to my students in many ways. Patience is the key; experience provides suggestions on alternate methods and techniques. If I can positively influence my students to look at the big picture while developing their own skill set, I’ve done my job.
Patience is the key; experience provides suggestions on alternate methods and techniques. If I can positively influence my students to look at the big picture while developing their own skill set, I’ve done my job.
What have been some of the most rewarding moments or experiences you've had as an instructor in the soldering training field?
There have been many, but I always remember the young lady who came to class to learn how to solder so she could get a better job. She and her mom pulled together the money for the course; it was a huge gamble for them.
She passed her course, but the best news – one of the other students in the room had taken her information, and she was hired by his company not long after. Success!
What measures does the company take to ensure the instructors are well-equipped to deliver effective soldering training and IPC certification courses?
The company is very supportive of its trainers. We never lack equipment or supplies when requested. When we first come on board as a fledgling trainer, we attend classes with an experienced Master Trainer (MIT) until we feel comfortable delivering our first class with the MIT sitting in to assist if needed. EPTAC has provided me with positive support through my time with them. I can honestly say this is the best company I have been employed with. It’s not just one person; the whole company is positive and supportive. It’s family.
EPTAC has provided me with positive support through my time with them. I can honestly say this is the best company I have been employed with. It’s not just one person; the whole company is positive and supportive. It’s family.
Have you observed any common misconceptions or difficulties that students often face?
The most difficult skill to learn is dwell time (solder iron on work piece) and the correct amount of solder flow to achieve the optimum connection.
What attracted you to work at EPTAC?
EPTAC provided my IPC training when I was with my last employer, prior to retiring. The MIT at the time was from my home town and asked me if I’d be interested in working for EPTAC after I had been retired for a couple of years. It sparked my interest because it was a field I was familiar with, and my new friend said there would be travel involved!
How would you describe your overall experience working with EPTAC, and what aspects of the company's approach to both clients and also the team do you appreciate the most?
Overall, I can’t say enough good things about the company and the people that work for EPTAC. The technical support, the personal support, the sense of humor shown by all; it makes working for EPTAC a pleasure. I believe these same qualities are demonstrated to our customers as well.
TheyThe technical support, the personal support, the sense of humour shown by all; it makes working for EPTAC a pleasure. keep us as a team even though we are many miles apart.
Can you share a memorable teaching moment or success story from your time at EPTAC?
I would have to share the same story about the young lady who signed up for a hand solder class. She and her mom scraped up the money to afford the course so the young lady could find a better job in this world of ours. As an aside, I have students from all kinds of industries, and part of what I like to do is develop interaction between the students – exchanging ideas and information for the class to develop almost like a team. This young lady met a fellow student who, at the end of the week, gave her his business card and said his company was hiring in a few weeks and he would call her.
Two amazing events came from this story. First, on hearing the story, the owner of EPTAC had the young lady’s tuition refunded! Second, she got the job!
In your opinion, what sets EPTAC apart from other courses and training providers, and how has your experience at EPTAC influenced your personal growth and development?
I have no other experience with other training providers, so I can’t give an opinion. In regards to EPTAC, through observation, conversations, and support programs like suggested reading of recommended books on various life and outlook enhancements, I have alternate views in my take on life and working with adult students.
Through observation, conversations, and support programs like suggested reading of recommended books on various life and outlook enhancements, I have alternate views in my take on life and working with adult students.
About EPTAC
EPTAC is an internationally recognized leader in solder training and IPC certification, providing professionals with the skills to accelerate their careers and businesses and the talent to succeed. For over 35 years, EPTAC has been helping corporations increase quality standards, improve productivity, and maximize profits. With 24 locations in North America, EPTAC continues to expand its offerings and exceptional instructional staff to provide easy access to knowledge and skill-based programs when and where the industry demands it. Access our scheduled programs through our website or schedule your own corporate on-site training. For more information, call 800.643.7822 or contact us.
