Benchmark announces appointment of Michael R. Dawson

Benchmark Electronics, Inc. (NYSE: BHE) announced the appointment of Michael R. Dawson to the Board of Directors of the Company effective September 6, 2006 to serve as an independent director. Mr. Dawson is Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of GlobalSantaFe Corporation, an offshore oil and gas drilling contractor. Previously, he served as Vice President and Controller and as Vice President and Treasurer for GlobalSantaFe.

Prior to November 2001, Mr. Dawson served as Vice President, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications for Global Marine, Inc. A Certified Public Accountant, Mr. Dawson joined Global Marine in 1999 after 16 years with Union Texas Petroleum Holdings, where he served as Director of Acquisitions and Portfolio Management, Director of Investor Relations and in numerous financial management positions in the Controller's organization. Mr. Dawson began his career at Shell Oil Company in 1975. Mr. Dawson holds a B.B.A. degree from the University of Iowa.