BME Seminar: “Design Meets Delivery: Operationalizing Biomedical Innovation”

Details

Trenicka Dukes
Sr. Engineering Program Manager
Medtronic

Abstract: When we think about biomedical engineering and MedTech, the spotlight often shines on research and development (R&D)—the birthplace of innovation. It’s where ideas take shape, and solutions to patient and clinician needs begin. But is innovation truly complete when a design exists only on paper or in a prototype? Not quite. This talk challenges the traditional R&D-first mindset and reframes the conversation: innovation is not fully realized until it is manufactured, scaled, and delivered reliably to those who need it most. By viewing R&D through the lens of operations, we uncover a critical truth—design without execution is an unfinished promise. Key deliverables like design for manufacturability, process capability, supply resilience, and regulatory readiness accelerate the path from concept to clinic. Innovation isn’t just inventing; it’s delivering—at scale, with discipline, and with patients at the center.

Bio: Trenicka Dukes is a senior engineering program manager at Medtronic, specializing in manufacturing operations, program management and design transfer. With over 6 years of experience at Medtronic and 10 + years across manufacturing, global engineering operations, R&D operations and nonprofit leadership. Trenicka has led cross-functional teams to accelerate product launches, optimize global operations and drive multi-million dollar capacity expansions. Trenicka holds degrees in biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering and business law. She is passionate about bridging R&D and operations to deliver impactful healthcare solutions.