Navigating Growth in Phoenix’s Medical Device Sector: Insights from Claudia Whitehead, Bioscience Healthcare Program Manager

Claudia Whitehead leads bioscience healthcare initiatives within the Phoenix Community and Economic Development Department, bringing over 16 years of economic development experience to stimulate biotech and medical device growth. She fosters connections within the medical device manufacturing industry, provides tailored space solutions, and addresses workforce development challenges. Driven by her passion for bioscience and healthcare, Claudia underscores the significance of her work in enhancing lives, deriving purpose from Phoenix’s growth through strategic partnerships with local universities, contract manufacturing facilities, and specialized maker spaces.

Q: Can you provide an overview of how the City of Phoenix supports medical device manufacturing, and what role your program plays in this sector?

A: The City of Phoenix supports medical device manufacturing by attracting new manufacturers while staying connected with existing ones. This fosters collaboration, as many companies value the presence of a critical mass in the sector. Additionally, we ensure companies can access suitable spaces. Startups need turnkey facilities, and more prominent manufacturers are looking for extensive setups. A key resource we offer is the Annual Facilities Program, which speeds up operational setup and supports efficient modifications as companies evolve.

Another essential component is workforce development. Phoenix is the only city in the Valley with a dedicated workforce development team backed by federal funding, focused on recruiting and training talent for industry needs, from entry-level to advanced skills.

Q: What are some recent developments or investments in Phoenix’s medical device manufacturing sector that you're particularly excited about?

A: It's an exciting time for Phoenix's medical device manufacturing sector. We've seen new contract manufacturing facilities open with expertise in niche areas and federal compliance. These facilities serve large and early-stage companies, supporting everything from co-engineering to prototyping at different stages.

We specialize in makerspace, where companies can develop their initial or second-generation prototypes, working alongside industry experts. Additionally, the semiconductor industry's growth in Phoenix has created unique opportunities for medical devices, especially those that require advanced sensors and microelectronics. The convergence of these sectors, along with continued investment from public and private sectors, positions Phoenix as a medical device manufacturing hub. It's perfect timing for the MDM2 consortium to help amplify these developments.

Q: How does your program collaborate with local universities, research institutions, and private companies to drive innovation in medical device technology?

A: Companies often seek out a network as they enter a new market or expand. Our program works closely with local universities, research institutions, and clinical partners to connect medical device manufacturers with the right resources to support their work.

Universities provide companies with access to specialized equipment and expertise. This ecosystem allows companies to develop alongside future customers, as clinical collaborators often become end users of these new technologies. Giving patients quicker access to cutting-edge innovations – a win for companies and the community.

Q: What challenges do you see for medical device manufacturers in Phoenix, and how is your team working to address these?

A: One of the biggest challenges for medical device manufacturers is finding individuals with specialized expertise. This challenge is also an opportunity, as many roles in manufacturing provide paths for advancement without requiring a college degree. Our workforce development team works with educational partners to offer customized training programs and allocates funds to training to upskill local talent.

Phoenix is ranked number one in biomedical graduate growth, and we have a steady influx of highly trained biomedical engineers from our universities. With Phoenix being the 5th-largest and fastest-growing city in the U.S., we're confident in our ability to meet the talent demands of this sector. For instance, when a medical device company recently needed staff with a specific skill set, we provided five qualified resumes within days. This responsiveness shows the strength of our local talent pool.

Q: Looking ahead, what growth opportunities do you anticipate for medical device manufacturing in Phoenix, and how can the city further position itself as a leader in this industry?

A: The growth potential for medical device manufacturing in Phoenix is driven by our robust healthcare systems, such as Mayo Clinic, Dignity Health, HonorHealth, Banner Health, Valleywise, Abrazo, the Phoenix VA, and the Phoenix Indian Medical Center. These healthcare institutions serve Phoenix and attract patients from across the country, creating valuable opportunities for partnerships to refine new medical technologies.

Phoenix offers a unique advantage for medical device companies by providing proximity to diverse patient populations. Arizona ranks 9th nationally in clinical trial impact, and the region's range of expertise – from neurosciences and cardiology to oncology and rare diseases – allows companies to engage with a broad spectrum of clinical needs.

We're committed to reinforcing this supportive network so the healthcare community and device companies can continue to benefit, creating a dynamic cycle of medical innovation and patient care advancements.