The SPE Medical Plastics Division (MPD) Midwest MiniTec 2026, held on October 28 at the Minneapolis Convention Center in conjunction with MD&M Midwest, brought together industry experts, researchers, students, and innovators to explore the latest advances in medical polymers and plastics.
The SPE Medical Plastics Division advances innovation in healthcare by connecting professionals, sharing technical knowledge, and fostering collaboration in medical polymers and plastics.
Under the theme “Polymers: The Material Platform Behind Modern Healthcare,” the conference featured presentations on advanced materials, next-generation medical devices and therapies, and innovative manufacturing technologies.
Healthcare Innovation
Promote polymer technologies that improve medical device performance, patient safety, and healthcare outcomes. Keynote speaker, Dr. Ogle presented “Bioink Development to Advance 3D Bioprinting & Organoid Development,” highlighting advances in cardiac tissue engineering and the development of novel bio ink formulations for creating complex, living cardiac tissues through 3D bioprinting.
Thank you to all the speakers
Thank you for sharing your expertise at MiniTec Midwest. You brought energy, fresh ideas, and valuable perspectives to our attendees. Your presentations helped connect research with real-world applications and offered perspectives on the future of healthcare.
Developing the Next Generation of Medical Plastics Leaders
A highlight of this year’s event was the strong student participation, including research poster presentations showcasing innovative approaches to healthcare challenges.
At the SPE Medical Plastics Division, our mission goes beyond advancing polymer science and medical technology.
We believe we have a responsibility to help the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators find their place in the medical plastics industry.
Through student scholarships, poster competitions, educational programs, mentoring, and connections with industry professionals, we are helping students turn their education into meaningful careers.
Announcing SPE MPD Scholarships 2026
SPE MPD is excited to announce a new round of scholarships for 2026/2027!
Medical Plastics $4000/1500/500 is for Medical Plastics Undergraduates and is co-sponsored:
IGS + SPE Student Scholarship Announcement 2026
Intended for medical plastics-focused undergraduate students.
Medical Polymers $3000/500/500 is for Medical Polymer/Materials Undergraduates and Graduates.
SPE Student Scholarship Announcement 2026
Intended for medical materials students of all types.
Applications due Nov 30, 2026!
By investing in students today, we are helping build the future of medical plastics and healthcare innovation.
Our success is measured not only by the technologies we advance, but also by the people we help succeed.
