Today’s aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, and defense systems contain thousands, if not millions, of electronic, electrical, and optical components. Innovative connectors empower these disparate systems to function as cohesive solutions. Aerospace and defense connectors must be designed in accordance with stringent military quality and testing standards while accommodating expanding demands for higher-data rates and reduced size, weight, power, and cost (SWaP-C). A newer generation of connectors is becoming available that leverages advancements in materials science, shielding, sealing, and other design features to enable more reliable connectivity at higher data rates in smaller form factors. In this 60-minute webinar from the editors of Aerospace & Defense Technology, a panel of industry experts will present these new design trends to explain why next-generation aerospace and defense applications depend on continued connectivity advancements.
Speakers:
Jennifer Harkless, Product Line Director, Spectrum Control
Jennifer Harkless is a Product Line Director at Spectrum Control, where she leads the strategy and growth of the company’s EMI protection portfolio. With more than 27 years of experience in the electronics and component manufacturing industry, including nearly eight years at Spectrum Control, she brings deep expertise in electromagnetic interference mitigation and high-reliability system design. She is responsible for driving product innovation, shaping lifecycle strategy, and aligning advanced filtering solutions for the evolving demands of aerospace, defense, and high-performance industrial applications. Through Jennifer’s leadership, Spectrum Control continues to strengthen its position as a trusted partner for mission-critical EMI solutions.
Michael Traskos, President, Lectromec
Michael Traskos serves as the President of Lectromec, where he has worked since 2004. He initially served as a lab technician for the company before transitioning into an engineering role and ultimately becoming president. Michael has worked on projects ranging from EWIS component testing to remaining reliable service life predictions of electrical wiring interconnection system (EWIS) components to support aircraft fleet life extension projects. He is a regular contributor to the aerospace industry on wire and cable topics, with more than 300 authored articles, and serves as Chairman of SAE’s AE-8A wire systems committee and Vice Chairman of the AE-8D committee. Michael is an EWIS Designated Engineering Representative, who holds a master’s degree in applied physics from George Mason University.
Moderator:
Amanda Hosey, Editor, SAE Media Group
