How to Become an Electronic Component Distributor

Distributors must be skilled in management, organization, analysis and economics.

In the electronic components industry, distributors – often known as distribution managers or logistics managers – essentially supervise supply chains, organizing the movement of goods from manufacturers to retailers. Electronic components range from circuit boards to connectors to cables, and employer needs vary greatly. There is no guaranteed path to becoming an electronic components distributor. Your best bet is laying a solid groundwork in the industry and networking with local manufacturers.

Instructions

1. Focus your education on information technologies and business management. Supplement this focus with studies in electronics, electronics technologies or industrial electronics. Though there is no standard degree required for electronic component distributors, most employers prefer at least a bachelor's degree.

2. Gain work experience in the electronics industry, or in the fields of industrial or retail distribution. Seek entry-level work at component manufacturers. Get your foot in the door by working in quality control. A good service record can help you work your way up to the position of distribution manager. Accept any management positions in the industry to gain experience and put a strong line on your resume. Distributors work as managers in a supervisory capacity, which is rarely an entry-level position; experience goes far in getting you the job. Most employers require distribution managers to have three to five years of industry experience.

3. Create a detailed resume that lists any past employment experience in the electronic components industry, especially jobs involving transportation, stock control or warehousing. Include any management or manufacturing experience and highlight skills such as negotiation, data analysis or resource allocation.

4. Network with companies in the electronic components industry. Contact the Electronic Components Industry Association (ECIA) at 678-393-9990 for their Georgia office or 703-907-8024 for their Virginia office. Ask about local industry employs. Gather addresses and begin distributing your resume. Follow up each submission with a phone call.

5. Consider joining the ECIA. The ECIA hosts regular industry conferences and offers networking opportunities with companies in the electronic components industry. The ECIA offers application forms at its official website. Continue to network, distribute resumes and work in the industry until you find the job opening you're looking for.

Tips & Warnings

• Read the news daily, especially the business section. As an electronic component distributor, you'll need to be familiar with current fuel costs, the fluctuating prices of raw materials, environmental pressures and – in some cases – current exchange rates.

References

• Prospects: Logistics and Distribution Manager Job Description
• StateUniversity.com: Distribution Manager Job Description
• Electronic Components Industry Association: Contact EICA
• Electronic Components Industry Association: ECIA Membership
• Australian Government ASRI: Supply and Distribution Manager – 133611

Resources

• Electronic Components Industry Association