TRP students learn about the impact of medical technologies at 2024 MedTech Conference
Students in the Translational Research Program (TRP) often get opportunities to attend conferences in the field of translations. In October 2024, first-year TRP students attended the 2024 MedTech conference held at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in Toronto.
With thousands of attendees and companies from 45 countries interested in innovations in medical technologies, TRP students connected with entrepreneurs, industry experts, clinicians, researchers, consultants, engineers, patients, students, sponsors, and innovators from diverse interdisciplinary backgrounds.
Some of the students share their experiences.
Sheryl Ordonez
“My understanding of healthcare and medicine has profoundly broadened since starting at TRP, thanks to opportunities that enrich our learning, such as the MedTech conference. This event served as my first introduction to the medical technology space, fueling my eagerness to learn from experts, build my network, and witness the impactful work transforming the healthcare landscape.
I have learned that healthcare includes a complex, interwoven network where multiple stakeholders and fields intersect and collaborate. At Medtech, I not only had the chance to apply my TRP learning but also to engage with experts and learn from their real-world experiences. I was particularly curious about the direction healthcare is headed over the next 10 years and what innovative ideas are being promoted to address current challenges. It was a pleasure to engage in meaningful discussions with individuals offering diverse perspectives, including my peers. Additionally, for those of us exploring career paths in healthcare, the conference provided invaluable professional guidance and inspiration”.
Kareem Draz
“I was introduced to a fully autonomous robot powered by AI with the capabilities to navigate and support medical professionals such as medical sonographers, medical and lab technicians, nursing assistants, and nurse practitioners in their work. It was a one-of-a-kind product by a fast-growing startup aimed at integrating AI with clinician work.
I found it fascinating to see the real-world applications and incredible products that can be produced with the integration of Artificial Intelligence, and just how impressive it can be in the medical field.
In addition to that, I found the entire experience to be remarkable. There were many displays, demos, activities, and companies sharing their talent. A few also integrated Virtual Reality (VR) technology, another field I find exciting!
As a student in TRP, my experience is enhanced from being able to see real-world applications of innovative approaches to advancing technology in medical health. The industrial perspective really opens my perspective in what I am learning and how it applies to the real world. I learned a lot of different ways that companies grow and innovate, and I would recommend everyone to get involved and learn more what cool things people are working on!”
Angelina Da Silva
“Attending the MedTech conference offered valuable insights into the medical technology space, and I am eager to integrate this knowledge into future research initiatives.
This conference highlighted emerging trends and incredible innovations that resonate with potential capstone project ideas. As a first-year TRP student, I am grateful to have attended an event that provided a robust foundation into the current state of the medical technology landscape so early in my graduate degree.
This experience enhanced my TRP journey by broadening my perspective on how medical technologies are developed and implemented. It gave me tangible examples of the challenges innovators face and how collaboration across disciplines can drive meaningful change. The exposure to real-world applications has not only deepened my understanding of translational research principles but also helped me appreciate the practical impact of patient-centered innovation. Above all, I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to learn about developments in healthcare technology can inspire innovative approaches to our projects.”
Muhammad Asif
“The MedTech conference was inspiring, allowing us to get an up-close view of the latest innovations in medical technology. Having engaged with passionate industry leaders, innovative startups, and healthcare researchers, the conference brought me and my TRP cohort a renewed sense of purpose to advancing innovation in healthcare.
It was inspiring to hear about the technologies and how they positively impact patient lives. As a first-year TRP student, I have a keen interest in improving patient outcomes, so talking and hearing about patient success stories serve as reminders of the tangible, life-changing impact of innovation in healthcare.
Many of the seminars and presentations highlighted pressing healthcare issues worldwide, such as accessibility in rural areas, the aging population, and chronic disease management. This opportunity to learn about medical technology companies, their operations, and their understanding of the ‘domain’ they work in was an inspiring experience that will undoubtedly help us in our future projects.”
