It is with great sadness that we announce the untimely death of Achim Scharf, Editor of Power Electronics Europe and power electronics industry stalwart.

Achim entered the power electronics community 35 years ago, launching PCIM Europe and Automation, Motors and Drives whilst at ZM communications. Achim joined Power Electronics Europe in February 2000, editing the title’s third issue, where he remained until his death.

Achim was a key part of the PCIM conference committee and presented papers at PCIM in Nuremberg for over 30 years.

He was a knowledgeable and respected editor, ever sociable and positive about life and the industry he served so enthusiastically.

Achim was pre-deceased by his wife last year and died earlier this year following a short illness. He will be sorely missed by everyone at Power Electronics Europe and the whole of the power electronics community.