The certification process was demanding and complex, but thanks to careful preparation and the efforts of all employees, Gatema PCB managed to successfully navigate through all phases and fulfill all specified requirements. Obtaining the certification for the production of sophisticated printed circuit boards according to the AS 9100D standard is now the final step for Gatema PCB to become one of the exclusive manufacturers of PCB prototypes, supplying their prototype boards to manufacturers in the aerospace, military, and medical electronics sectors.

This certification will serve as further evidence of the high level of quality and reliability of Gatema PCB's products. Obtaining AS 9100D certification is an important step towards further development and expansion into new markets and areas.

AS 9100D certification not only confirms the quality and safety of the products but also opens doors to new business opportunities and partnerships in the highly demanding environment of the aerospace, defense, and space industries.

Gatema PCB thus becomes a trustworthy and respected partner for manufacturers in the mentioned sectors, offering top-quality prototype printed circuit boards that meet the highest standards of quality and safety.

Gatema PCB recently successfully completed quality certification process according to the AS 9100D standard, thereby meeting all requirements for the production and supply of printed circuit boards for the aerospace, defense, and space industries. This step represents a significant milestone in the company's development and strengthens its position in the market.

The certification process was demanding and complex, but thanks to careful preparation and the efforts of all employees, Gatema PCB managed to successfully navigate through all phases and fulfill all specified requirements. Obtaining the certification for the production of sophisticated printed circuit boards according to the AS 9100D standard is now the final step for Gatema PCB to become one of the exclusive manufacturers of PCB prototypes, supplying their prototype boards to manufacturers in the aerospace, military, and medical electronics sectors.

This certification will serve as further evidence of the high level of quality and reliability of Gatema PCB's products. Obtaining AS 9100D certification is an important step towards further development and expansion into new markets and areas.

Gatema PCB thus becomes a trustworthy and respected partner for manufacturers in the mentioned sectors, offering top-quality prototype printed circuit boards that meet the highest standards of quality and safety.

Interview with Pavel Zouhar, Gatema Holding executive serving as Director of ISO about printed circuit boards from Gatema PCB for the aerospace industry.

To start off, could you explain to us what the AS 9100D standard is?

AS 9100D is a standard that sets requirements for a company's management system for deliveries to the aerospace, defense, and space industries. It's an enhancement to the ISO 9001 standard, which focuses on quality management.

Could you be more specific and give our readers a closer look?

This standard places high demands on personnel, requiring knowledge and maturity for quick response to customer requirements. It emphasizes product safety, reliability, traceability, and handling of non-standard situations and changes.

Why did you decide to implement the AS 9100D standard and what does it mean for the company?

We see a future in it, especially considering our strategy focused on prototypes and small series for the aerospace industry. With certification, we'll be listed in the international OASIS database, opening doors to global contracts and increasing our competitiveness in the production of high-value-added boards.

What was the process of implementing the standard like?

The project began with a GAP analysis in collaboration with an external company, followed by changes in production, procurement, inspection, and testing. The project concluded with an internal audit by an external company, and after successful completion, we were ready for the Stage I audit, followed by the Stage II audit.

What surprised you during the project?

There were plenty of surprises, both pleasant and unpleasant. If I were to mention three main areas, firstly, it's the style of auditing by the external company. The huge emphasis on the interconnection between process parameters and the resulting functionality and reliability of the product for the customer. Every production step is assessed for the potential impact of non-quality on the final product, which determines the level of documentation and records of that production activity. All this is done with regard to specific requirements from both the customer and technical specifications, which were also perceived by the external auditor, something that hadn't happened in certification audits in the past. Secondly, the length of the audit. Eight days is historically the longest audit time, and believe it or not, during this time, you really delve into every nook and cranny of operations or read through all the chapters of randomly found years-old, outdated directives. Lastly, the employees' approach to this project. Without exception, everyone was cooperative, willing, changes occurred smoothly, calmly, and without stress. Moreover, the level of presentation during the audit was excellent from everyone.

How did you fare after completing the audits?

Very well. The result was three major and four minor non-conformities, which is an excellent outcome considering our first experience with this system and style of auditing. It's worth noting that the bar for issuing a non-conformity is set devilishly low, and even the slightest detail that could potentially affect the final functionality and reliability of the product is mercilessly classified as a non-conformity.

What's next for you after successfully obtaining certification?

Now, we'll become more familiar with the system, focusing on digitalizing information in production and automation. We want all records to be accessible through an information system, making it easier to access information about the production of printed circuit boards for the aerospace industry.

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