Abstract: An interconnect element is provided which includes a dielectric element having a first major surface, a second major surface remote from the first major surface, and a plurality of recesses extending inwardly from the first major surface. A plurality of metal traces are embedded in the plurality of recesses, the metal traces having outer surfaces substantially co-planar with the first major surface and inner surfaces remote from the outer surfaces. A plurality of posts extend from the inner surfaces of the plurality of metal traces through the dielectric element, the plurality of posts having tops exposed at the second major surface. A multilayer wiring board including a plurality of such interconnect elements is also provided, as well as various methods for making such interconnect elements and multilayer wiring boards.