James Cunningham
EMC/Wireless Lab Manager
Define your role within Nemko.
As the EMC/Wireless Lab Manager at Nemko, I oversee the daily operations of our testing lab in San Diego. My role involves managing a team of engineers and technicians, ensuring compliance with international standards, and maintaining the quality and efficiency of our testing processes. I also collaborate with clients and our sales team to guide them through regulatory requirements and help bring their products to market.
How did you choose this career path?
A long, long time ago, after finishing university, I landed my first real job at the UK Atomic Energy Authority, working in a department that designed instrumentation for controlling nuclear power reactors. There, I learned that “EMC” existed and was an important aspect of keeping those power plants safe. Then, the EU EMC Directive was introduced in 1992, and I began working at a commercial EMC/wireless laboratory in the UK. I’ve been in the industry ever since.
What do you enjoy most about your job at Nemko?
What I enjoy most is the variety—no two days are the same. I get to work with cutting-edge technologies and collaborate with a diverse range of clients, from startups to global corporations. I also appreciate the problem-solving aspect of the job; finding creative solutions to complex compliance challenges is incredibly rewarding. The people and culture at Nemko are also first-class.
Are there any challenges that you’ve faced during your career that have taught you important lessons?
One of the biggest challenges has been adapting to rapidly changing regulatory landscapes, especially in wireless technologies. These shifts have taught me the importance of staying proactive, continuously learning, and fostering strong communication within my team and with clients. It seems that new technologies (especially wireless!) are coming out all the time, often ahead of international standards.
What do you think the industry will look like in 20 years?
Looking backwards first, I see that the last 20 years have brought about more complex regulatory requirements and technologies. I don’t see that changing. In the next 20 years, I imagine that test engineers like myself and my team will need to grow and learn many new concepts. AI and improved automation will undoubtedly play a significant role in this.
What do you find most rewarding about your role?
Helping clients navigate the regulatory maze and seeing their products successfully enter the market is incredibly fulfilling. I also take pride in mentoring younger engineers and building a lab culture that values precision, integrity, and innovation.
What are some market trends you’re keeping an eye on?
I stay up to date with the latest technologies, which are evolving at an increasingly rapid pace. I’m also keeping a close eye on regulatory rules for different nations and regions. Products are coming out now, packed full of wireless technologies, making regulatory compliance more and more involved and complex as time goes on.
When not working, how do you spend your spare time?
Outside of work, I enjoy exploring San Diego. I’m also a fan of tinkering with electronics and staying up-to-date with emerging technology. Going to concerts has been a big pastime – my wife and I have been to the Coachella festival (I think) 10 times now (14 times for my wife!). I also enjoy growing and listening to my vinyl record collection, as well as playing with our two Siamese cats, Fish and Chip.
