With a sharp eye for detail, a talent for problem-solving, and an enthusiasm for the creative side of circuit board assembly, Surface Mount Technology Lead Stuart Robbins thrives in his role. His upbeat attitude, collaborative spirit, and genuine passion for the work make him an invaluable member of the MJS Designs team.
“I like to be creative and this (role) has a creative fulfillment to it. There’s an artistic aspect in some senses,” shares Stuart. “You are building things and occasionally, it’s fairly delicate. This is the type of thing I appreciate.”
Stuart has always had a natural talent for problem-solving. Even as a child, he enjoyed tackling challenges and working until he discovered a solution. Growing up in a creative family, he gravitated toward drawing and building legos, developing an early appreciation for creativity and discovery. Influenced by his stepdad’s career in tool and die making, Stuart knew he wanted a hands-on profession where he could create and problem-solve every day. In 2011, he joined MJS Designs as a beginner Surface Mount Technician, and over the past 14 years, he has worked up within that role, becoming a Trainer and a respected leader.
“We (the SMT department) are typically the first step in the process for the assembly of the boards. We take all of the information, the components, the bare board and then we plug all of it into our machines and get the end product for us, which is the assembled board. Then it will go to the next step in the manufacturing process” explains Stuart.
As Surface Mount Technology Lead, Stuart’s responsibilities span four core areas: programming SMT equipment, performing maintenance, training fellow technicians, and operating X-ray machines. But his role reaches far beyond those key functions. Each day begins with powering up the SMT machines, and from that moment forward, Stuart works to keep production running seamlessly. He ensures the reflow ovens are at the correct operating temperatures, programs and integrates coordinates for all of the components on the automated pick and place machines, and generates programming and the documentation that extends from doing so. When operating an automated pick and place machine, Stuart applies both technical precision and problem-solving skills as he works to align the machine’s origin with the board’s origin through careful math and graphing. He oversees verifications such as accurate vision files, which ensures the machine can properly identify all components, and rotations, which confirms each part is placed in the correct orientation. He also checks essential details like the polarities and orientations of the parts and DNI (do not install) requirements. All of this leads to the final step—running the boards through the reflow oven, where they’re carefully reflowed at the proper temperatures.
In addition to working closely with the other surface mount technicians to perform these daily tasks, the quality control team, solder technicians, and the stockroom attendants, Stuart also has the opportunity to work directly with customers. His expertise in the X-Ray machine allows him to explain the capabilities to them when they tour MJS Designs. Stuart’s experience and deep understanding of the machines naturally led him to step into the role of a trainer about eight years ago. He trains fellow surface mount technicians, guiding them through the learning process, which is something he takes deep pride in.
“The satisfaction of building and creating something is my favorite part of my job,” expresses Stuart. “Especially if it is complex and requires some extra creativity. I also enjoy teaching people. My role is to train other Surface Mount Technicians and I really like teaching them and breaking the information down so they can absorb and really understand it.”
Stuart finds satisfaction in building and creating complex systems, and his enthusiasm only grows with the challenge of more difficult builds. He enjoys uncovering the “quirks” of each machine and finding the best solutions
to make every part fit seamlessly. Since joining MJS Designs more than a decade ago, he credits learning from true “hands-on” experience as this is how he discovered the true mechanics of how everything works. When reflecting on his time at MJS, Stuart is most proud of two things: contributing to the creation of intricate systems from start to finish, and training others, finding true fulfillment in watching his colleagues grow and succeed. Cheering on his team comes naturally, especially in an environment like MJS Designs that fosters such a strong support system.
“I am fortunate that Stuart is on our SMT team. He consistently comes to work with a positive attitude and is always prepared for the day. I have the pleasure of working directly with him a few times each year when we host customers for complex project builds. During these interactions, Stuart demonstrates professionalism, technical expertise, and a commitment to excellence. He willingly steps in wherever needed to ensure customer requirements are met. I am truly grateful that Stuart has chosen to build his career with MJS Designs.” Says Dawn Northrop, President of MJS Designs.
At home, Stuart enjoys tapping into his creativity through writing and spending time reading. He’s also an avid sports fan and likes to unwind by watching games, which is what you will find him doing when he’s not leading the MJS Designs SMT team.
For over 45 years, MJS Designs has been a trusted leader in PCB engineering, CAD Layout, assembly and test driven by a commitment to delivering exceptional quality and precision. We partner with industry leaders in the semiconductor, agriculture, medical, commercial, aerospace, and military sectors, providing reliable PCB assembly solutions that bring their projects to life. Learn more about our capabilities and how MJS Designs can support your next project by visiting our homepage here.
