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November 2025 Highlight - Dave Doherty, DigiKey
What is your involvement with ECIA and what have you gained from your engagement with the association?
DigiKey has been involved with ECIA/NEDA for 35 years. I have served as a member since 2007 and had the honor to serve as ECIA Chair 2017-18. Early in my career, I was fortunate to have leaders and role models who were actively engaged in NEDA, the predecessor to ECIA. They emphasized the importance of industry associations. While we compete ethically and at times aggressively with our peers, we embrace a “iron sharpens iron” mindset. We also recognized the value of collaboration on initiatives that drive standardization and improvement, ultimately enabling all members to better serve their customers.
What does your company do and what is your role in your company?
I serve as CEO of DigiKey, where our mission is to fuel innovation and accelerate progress for nearly a million customers annually across more than 180 countries. We do this by offering the industry’s largest selection of products available for immediate shipment.
What is your favorite thing about this industry?
Without hesitation, the best part of this industry is the relationships. Across the design and supply chain, companies take pride in the role they play and the service they provide. This shared purpose fosters long tenures and the opportunity to build relationships that span years, even decades.
Can you share a memorable recent industry connection?
I recently had the honor of receiving an alumni award from my alma mater, Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). Fellow WPI alum, Dean Kamen, graciously agreed to present me with the honor. Dean’s kind words and presence on that day were a testament to the relationships and connections that help our industry flourish. Read more about it here.
What are your hobbies and interests outside of work?
Outside of work, I’m a certified general aviation pilot instructor, a passion I’ve justified to my wife as a way to visit our four (soon to be five!) grandchildren. I also co-chair a board focused on building a secondary school in a remote region of Malawi, Africa.
Are you currently binging any shows on Netflix, Hulu etc.?
I just finished binging Season 3 of The Diplomat while on a 16-hour flight to attend the school opening celebration in Africa. The show has great storytelling and sharp dialogue!
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