As part of this year’s MPO Summit preview, I wanted to offer a little bit of the reasoning behind the sessions arranged for this year’s event. First, each MPO Summit agenda begins with a meeting of Editorial Advisory Board members. Since these are the folks living the challenges, best practices, and trends daily, we find it incredibly beneficial to be able to draw upon their experiences and vision as to what they view as most important. Then, we take those ideas, review them, and try to align with potential speakers or panelists. Sometimes, the pieces fall easily into place; other times, it can be a bit more challenging. Regardless, the goal is always to present the best educational, informative line-up we can. 

With that said, the following is insight into some of the thinking behind this year’s schedule.

State of the Industry—The anchor of every MPO Summit. This session is often one of the most discussed at each event. Bryan Hughes of PMCF will provide a snapshot of what’s taking place in medtech at both the OEMs and their supply partners. Facts, figures, and trends are shared as well as projections and expectations. It kicks off every event and it’s not to be missed. 

Beyond Reshoring—Rosemary Coates, founder and executive director of the Reshoring Institute, returns to the Summit to offer insights on the current state of companies reconsidering locations for facilities. She presented at a previous Summit years ago, but as so much has happened since then around this topic, we thought it prudent to invite her back to provide an update. 

Make vs. Buy—Another timely discussion for supply chains that are transforming. In fact, a few of our panelists taking part in this session said they’ve had this conversation within their firms relatively recently. What factors are most important and what are the best methods for determining which route to take? While this is going to lead to a different answer for every company, this panel discussion will ideally give attendees important consideration factors to help reach the right decision. 

Washington Update—With so much change taking place in D.C., we thought it vital to have not only our annual State of the Industry session, but a “Washington-centric” presentation as well. We’re looking forward to key insights from Brendan Benner of MDMA on what’s taking place in the White House, Congress, FDA, and within other aspects of government that affect the business of medtech. How will these adjustments potentially impact your company and its future? Find out during this session.

Lean Isn’t Dead—How to handle inventory is one of the most challenging questions post-pandemic. Everyone was Lean, which led to issues when supply of components from certain regions and suppliers dried up. Should Lean be done away with or is there a new strategy worth investigating? Hear from Plante Moran’s Matt Stekier on this topic to get his insights and suggestions. 

Face to Face—One comment we’ve heard several times during the board meetings is how great it would be to recreate the call dynamic at the Summit. Since we can’t record and present those discussions as I suspect participation would change substantially, this session will attempt to come close. This panel will strive to recreate the energy and value of those conversations. With several board members as panelists and Chamfr’s Julie Schulte (also an MPO board member) as moderator, the candid discussion should provide thought-provoking insights at the close of Day 1.

FDA’s New QMSR—Day 2 is not to be missed as important regulatory changes are covered in the first session. Dr. Chris Devine will guide attendees on the most important aspects of the FDA’s final rule regarding CGMP, QSR, and QMS. This session is expected to have ramifications for everyone in the room. Find out how it affects your company. 

Scientific AI—A quick review of most issues of MPO will reveal many articles that address the use of artificial intelligence (AI) or its impact on established technologies and processes. Yet, there’s much trepidation about its incorporation. As such, it was critical to include a session focused on AI. The goal will be to have attendees gain a better understanding of how AI can be used at their organization and how to go about making that happen. 

Sterilization—Warranted or not, there’s concern around EtO and its future as a sterilization process for medical devices. As such, there’s interest in alternatives. We thought it best to hear about such options from the experts themselves. Three presenters will provide overviews of their respective sterilization processes, followed by a Q&A session conducted with Darci Diage. Hopefully, one process stands out as a potential option for your company. 

If you haven’t yet registered for this year’s event in Silicon Valley, get more information at www.mposummit.com or reach out to me with questions.

Sean Fenske, Editor-in-Chief
sfenske@rodmanmedia.com