Ten Questions With …

Abstract

How did you become involved in the medical device industry?I took a position with 3M Medical Imaging Systems in St. Paul, MN. My primary assignment dealt with image quality control for picture archiving and communication systems. These systems were used for the digitization, transport, film printing, and display of a variety of medical imaging modalities with which 3M was involved. Eventually, I was asked to help author a 510(K) submission.What other industries have you been involved in, and how did those experiences help you in the device world?I started my career in aerospace and defense. I've also worked in industrial automated optical inspection, and contract engineering for a variety of industrial and consumer electronics firms. These positions ultimately gave me a broad perspective on how products are developed, and, most importantly, that successful products are the ones that meet well-understood user needs.What got you interested in standards work?While working at 3M, I was asked to attend a few committee meetings for the Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine imaging standard that was then in development. I had no idea that one day I'd be chest deep in standards work!What's the best part of your job?As a coordinator for standards management at the corporate level at Boston Scientific, I have visibility to all of our product families, as well as the teams that apply standards. My involvement with external standard development organizations also has been rewarding, in that I have had the chance to contribute to standards that are used all over the world. I also have enjoyed meeting and getting to know a variety of interesting people.What's the most challenging?While some think it sounds exotic and exciting to travel all over the world to attend committee meetings, it's also very exhausting!What's been the proudest moment of your career?I was honored with the H.W. Sweatt Award at Honeywell for my efforts leading a team to develop a new signal processing technology. It was a good feeling to be recognized for several years of effort, but what I was most proud of was the team members with whom I worked. They deserved it more than I did.What is the best career advice you ever got?Don't become complacent in your current position, for it might not be there tomorrow! Always have a second career option, and stay in touch with your network.What is one thing about you that others might be surprised to learn?That my main hobby is pyrotechnics!Who is your hero and why?My dad. While he had many faults, he had in innate curiosity for all things scientific. He passed that on to me, and gave me encouragement to follow that curiosity, as I found joy in mathematics, electronics, and ultimately engineering.What is your philosophy in 10 words or less?Be responsible and act with integrity.