CONTACT: Jennifer Read
678-393-9990
[email protected]

October 26, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

ECIA Releases Latest ‘Channel Channel’ Podcast Episode about the 100 Years History Project

ATLANTA – ECIA’s latest podcast episode is a conversation between ECIA Sr. Vice President Victor Meijers and industry luminary Al Maag, about ECIA’s 100 Years History project. Al shares his own background in the industry as Chief Communications Officer at Avnet, and previously with Molex, as well as his passions for 16-inch softball and his charitable foundation giving back to the community.

ECIA’s 100 Year History of Distribution E-book is being spearheaded by Maag and a team of seasoned writers. “Putting this together has been enlightening, as I thought Avnet was the first distributor,” Maag mused. “It turns out Sager and Hughes Peters were also doing business 100 years ago. The industry began when military equipment from World War 1 was decommissioned, and the electrical components sold to private companies in New York City in an area called ‘Radio Row’.”

“ECIA is assisting in the creation of this e-book to recognize the visionaries and founders of our industry, the companies that made a difference, technology, operational advancements, and the Association - which has helped spur the growth and value of the channel,” explained Meijers. “Al has assembled an impressive group of writers to tell the fascinating story of how our industry evolved. His deep involvement in that history, and his passion for communications makes for a ground-breaking book.”

In the episode, the two discuss how the e-book project is progressing: the way they were able to get priceless photos of industry pioneers, as yet untold anecdotes, illuminating quotes and much more. “It has been absolutely delightful seeing all the content coming in,” Maag continued. “I just love history and it’s been so fun seeing the enthusiasm for this project. But I’m not done yet! We want even more participation, so I’m still hoping for more companies to get involved. They will have to make a decision by November 15, so don’t put this off any longer.”

To find out more about the 100 Year History project, visit the 100 Years of The Authorized Channel Page on ECIA's website.

To listen to the podcast, go to ECIA Podcasts - The Channel Channel.

About ECIA
The Electronic Components Industry Association (ECIA) is made up of the leading electronic component manufacturers, their manufacturer representatives and authorized distributors. ECIA members share a common goal of promoting and improving the business environment for the authorized sale of electronic components. Comprised of a broad array of leaders and professionals representing all phases of the electronics components supply chain, ECIA is where business optimization, product authentication and industry advocacy come together. ECIA members develop industry guidelines and technical standards, as well as generate critical business intelligence. For more information, visit www.ecianow.org or call 678-393-9990.