In accordance with some implementations of this invention, an electronic assembly is formed with a thermal channel that controls an air flow for the purpose of dissipating heat generated in the electronic assembly. The electronic assembly includes a top board, a bottom board and a subassembly that further includes a rail, an airflow tab and an interconnect. The subassembly couples the top and bottom boards together. The rail has an opening through which air passes. The interconnect faces the airflow tab, carries electrical signals between the top board and the bottom board, and is configured to channel air directed through the opening of the rail.