BANNOCKBURN, Ill., USA, August 27, 2019 —  Elaine Larsen, 2014 and 2015 IHRA Jet Dragster World Champion and driver of the Florida Institute of Technology Florida's Space Coast Jet Dragster, will speak at the IPC APEX EXPO Women in Electronics reception on Tuesday, February 4, 2020, 6:00-7:30 p.m.

Larsen’s keynote, “A Chance Behind the Wheel in a Male-Dominated Industry” will focus on her entrée into the world of motorsports, a far cry from her Mennonite farming community upbringing. Now, with more than 20 years of drag racing experience, Larsen has found her home racing jet dragsters. With her current focus on mentoring the next generation of high-performance vehicle specialists, Elaine has never let being a female in the male-dominated racing industry affect her. "Drag racing is the equalizer, on any given day, I have the same chance as anyone to win, it just has to be my day,” Larsen has said.

In 2014, Larsen Motor Sports (LMS) launched its STEM initiative, and Larsen and her team work with students that have their eyes on the finish line. LMS has full fabrication capabilities, from composites, engines, and fabrication to the day-to-day operation of a multi car turbine powered race team; this is where students get the opportunity to jump right in and learn what it takes to the dragsters down the racetrack. The company’s affiliation with Florida Institute of Technology has opened the door for internships, which led the LMS team to research many different avenues from biofuels to human centered design.

The Women in Electronics reception invites women in the electronics industry to join their colleagues across the supply chain to network, share ideas, discuss career experiences and engage with a woman who has made a name for herself in a male-dominated field.

“We are thrilled to welcome Elaine to IPC APEX EXPO 2020,” said Alicia Balonek, senior director, trade shows and events. “We are eager to learn her insights on expanding women’s leadership roles and to share our experiences ‘blazing our own trails’ within the electronics industry.”

The Women in Electronics reception and other special events as well as access to the exhibit hall are free to those who register in advance, a savings of $40 on-site. Attendees who register by December 19 will save 20 percent off registration fees. In addition, attendees who register for the All-Access Package will receive a significant percentage off a la carte options. Details, including dates, time and complete registration options, are available at www.IPCAPEXEXPO.org.

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