An Interview with Stuart Cording

Stuart Cording

Technical Marketing Engineer at Cording Consulting

Key Topics:Semiconductors, Embedded Systems, Electronic Systems

Location:Munich, Germany

Bio:

Stuart is a freelance Technical Marketing Engineer supporting SMEs to optimally promote their deep tech solutions. With 20 years of experience in the electronics industry, he leverages his technical knowledge in semiconductors and embedded software development to create text-based and video content for clients. He also contributes regularly to the electronics magazine Elektor, producing articles and insight pieces, interviewing industry leaders, and moderating webinars and events.

How did you get to become an expert in your key topics?

I’ve been fascinated by electronics and programmable technology since my childhood. I read electronics magazines, honed my programming skills, and absorbed everything explaining electronic components in every spare moment. I spent one vacation working at a BBC radio station in the UK, repairing audio mixers and servicing outside broadcast equipment. With my degree in electronics complete, I built a career in the semiconductor industry, traveling around Europe and parts of the US. Through regular visits to customer sites, I learned the challenges engineers face, the technical support they need, and how they like that information presented. Today I see my role as an interface between engineers, sharing insights, technical knowledge, and experience through text and video.

What sub-topics are you most passionate about?

I’m intrigued by the cutting edge of the semiconductor industry and the applications these products enable. Currently, advancements in SiC and GaN are pushing boundaries in power converters, electric vehicles, solar inverters, and audio. Then there is RFCMOS that enables radar for autonomous driving and ADAS applications. Another area is the IoT and Industry 4.0, often coupling radio technology with embedded systems and cloud services.

Who influences you within these topics?

The people in the ebb and flow of the world of semiconductors operate in divisions and departments of businesses around the world. But, because their functions are so specialized, they are rarely visible. This is a shame because they typically are the first to see trends and technical breakthroughs. My job is to find these people and interview them, sharing their stories and outlook.

What challenges are brands facing in this space?

Brands struggle to reach decision-makers. The decision-makers are either engineers or have an engineering background, operating in exceptionally niche markets. They demand accurate information to make optimal compromises and build systems that often have to fulfill safety requirements. This requires building up trust, typically over many years. Finally, engineers tend to consume social media from a limited number of channels but don’t contribute. This can be discouraging for brands and makes it challenging to determine which messaging and channels work. My free tip – while there is room to have fun, make sure your copy, your video, and your messaging are technically valuable.

What do you think the future holds in this space?

I believe there is enormous potential for influencers in this space. There are a limited number of influencers and brands that haven’t yet figured out how to leverage them. We will need more technically-minded people with excellent communication skills. My dream is to apply Top Gear type production (UK automotive TV show) to promoting semiconductors, electronic components, and software solutions.

If a brand wanted to work with you, which activities would you be most interested in collaborating on?

I’d love to work with brands on moderating events, especially online events, and webinars. While the topics can often be dry, there is no reason why a little more creativity can’t be applied! Otherwise, I’m always open to writing white papers, articles, and creating video interviews – just drop me a line!

What are your passions outside of work?

Outside of work, I enjoy working in the garden, DIY, and music – both listening and playing when I have time.

What would be the best way for a brand to contact you?

By Email, LinkedIn, or my Website

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