Scientists are trained to focus on accuracy, evidence, and data. But audiences are focused on something else: relevance.
That disconnect can cause even brilliant researchers and technical experts to lose an audience that genuinely wants to understand what they have to say.
In the video below, “Scientific Storytelling and How NOT to Lose Your Audience,” John Skabardonis shares lessons from decades of technical communication and public speaking on how scientists, engineers, and other technical professionals can make complex ideas more compelling, understandable, and actionable.
John Skabardonis was responsible for Technical Marketing to the Electronics & Electrical industry in the Americas, before retiring from Covestro in Aug. 2025. He worked at Bayer, GE Plastics and Covestro in the US for 35+ years, in roles ranging from R&D, to Marketing, Marketing Communications and Technical Marketing.
John enjoys public speaking & refers to himself as a scientific storyteller. Fascinated by the rapid evolution of technology, he is focused on materials and processes which empower this evolution. He is also intensely interested in circularity, in order to maximize resource utilization.
John is a board member of the SPE Pittsburgh Section. He is also a member of the National Speakers Association, a Distinguished Toastmaster, and a member of the Industrial Designers Society of America.
Abstract: The term “medical grade” lacks a consistent industry definition, creating communication gaps between suppliers and device manufacturers. This video presents a proposed ASTM standard guide establishing uniform terminology and evaluation criteria for non-implantable polymers—aimed at improving material transparency, comparability, and consistency to enhance device quality and patient safety.
Bio: Dr. Scott Taylor is the Chief Technology Officer at Poly-Med and specializes in material selection and medical device design. He has worked on development teams for more than twenty marketed medical devices and is experienced in the creation of novel materials and processes, product design and development, advanced manufacturing services, application and development of intellectual property, as well as physical and chemical testing protocols.
His 10-year involvement with ASTM includes the development and maintenance of standards within committees F04 (Medical and Surgical Materials and Devices) and F42 (Additive Manufacturing Technologies), including chairing the joint group for absorbable polymeric materials and test methods.
Dr. Taylor has undergraduate degrees in physics and mechanical engineering from Furman University and Clemson University, respectively, and completed his doctorate in Bioengineering from Clemson University. Through his tenure, Dr. Taylor has published numerous papers and conference abstracts, several book chapters, and is inventor for more than 25 US and international patents. In addition to his position at Poly-Med, he maintains an appointment as adjunct faculty of Bioengineering at Clemson University.
SPE’s Medical Plastics Division (MPD) is currently seeking submission of titles and abstracts for technical presentations for its MD&M West MiniTec in Anaheim on February 8&9, 2027.
Topics of interest include the following:
1. Advanced Materials for Healthcare Applications
Smart, self-healing, bioinspired, and antimicrobial medical polymers advancing device performance
Biocompatibility, biomaterials, and material performance to improve safety, longetivity and high-performance
Advanced materials for new therapies, wearables, and drug delivery approaches transforming future healthcare
2. Next-Generation Medical Devices and Therapies
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning for healthcare innovation and medical device performance
Next-generation medical devices, wearable technologies, and advanced drug delivery systems
Personalized medical devices, advanced materials, digital health solutions, and patient feedback
3. Advanced Manufacturing and Processing Technologies
Additive manufacturing (3D and 4D printing) for advanced medical products
Advanced polymer processing and medical device manufacturing including micro-fabrication technologies
AI-enabled manufacturing, process control, and quality assurance optimization for effectiveness
4. Sustainable Healthcare Materials and Manufacturing
Design for sustainability, circularity, and product lifecycle management of healthcare products
Recycling, EPR, and circular economy strategies for medical plastics advancement
Microplastics environmental impact, sources, and mitigation strategies for health care materials.
5. Regulatory Compliance, Testing, and Standards
New sterilization methods and their effects on medical polymers and devices
Biocompatibility testing, material characterization and performance evaluation of devices
Regulatory compliance and emerging standards for ISO 10993, MDR, PFAS and related requirements
Presentation Submission Next Steps
We are seeking submissions by September 1, 2026. Please complete the information on the conference link below:
MPD Speaker Requirements for Selected Speakers – Important Deadlines
Submit proposed title & abstract by September 1, 2026. Your proposal will be reviewed and you will receive an email from the MPD Technical Programming Committee.
Accepted topics: submit a high resolution color headshot – 2 weeks after acceptance as speaker.
Submit your PowerPoint presentation for committee review no later than:
MD&M Minneapolis MiniTec – Minneapolis, MN | September 1, 2026
MD&M West MiniTec – Anaheim, CA | November 1, 2026
Participants will attend the on-site event
Consent to conference partner speaker agreement and distribution of a PDF version of your presentation to conference attendees
For additional information or any problems, please contact us.
Discover upcoming Happy Hour Speaker Series on hot topics that deliver practical insights, emerging trends, and real-world strategies. Our goal is to spark new ideas and encourage meaningful discussions.This summer is the perfect time to sharpen your skills, expand your network, and stay current with the latest developments in medical plastics and device manufacturing.
Take advantage of the summer months to:
Attend webinars and technical presentations
Read case studies and application stories
Explore emerging materials and processing technologies
Connect with industry peers and mentors
Share your expertise through posters, talks, and articles
UPCOMING EVENTS
“Medical Grade Polymers for Non-Implantable Applications”
Scott Taylor’s briefing on a proposed ASTM guide to “medical grade” terminology
for polymeric materials used in non-implantable devices.
MPD Speaker Requirements for Selected Speakers – Important Deadlines
Submit proposed title & abstract by August 5, 2026. Your proposal will be reviewed and you will receive an email from the MPD Technical Programming Committee.
Accepted topics: submit a high resolution color headshot – 2 weeks after acceptance as speaker.
Submit your PowerPoint presentation for committee review no later than:
MD&M Minneapolis MiniTec – Minneapolis, MN | September 1, 2026
Participants will attend the on-site event
Consent to conference partner speaker agreement and distribution of a PDF version of your presentation to conference attendees
Title: “Shape Memory Polyurethane Foams for Embolic Occlusion”
Abstract: Shape memory polymers (SMPs) are a versatile class of biomaterials that can be used for biomedical applications, such as minimally-invasive embolic occlusion procedures. Their ability to transition from a compact, catheter-deliverable form to an expanded structure under physiological conditions enables precise deployment within the body.
In relation to vascular embolization and aneurysm sac filling, SMP-based polyurethane foams that are fabricated by the team at Shape Memory Medical Inc., are shown to promote stable clot formation, tissue integration, and progressive healing. These properties position SMPs as a promising solution for improving clinical outcomes in endovascular therapies.
Bio:Dr. Marziya Hasan is a materials engineering leader specializing in polymer chemistry and medical device development. She currently serves as Senior Manager of Chemistry at Shape Memory Medical, Inc., where she leads engineering teams, scales advanced shape memory polymer technologies, and helps drive R&D-to-manufacturing transfer for Class III medical products. She earned her Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from Texas A&M University and holds a bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from Texas Lutheran University. She is an inventor on two U.S. patents with numerous peer-reviewed publications. She has also served as a Co-Investigator on multiple grants funded by the National Institutes of Health.
Dr. Hasan is also a part-time lecturer in Chemical and Materials Engineering at San Jose State University and an active professional volunteer, serving on the Board of Directors for various organizations such as the Society of Plastics Engineers – Golden Gate Section and Silicon Valley Engineering Council.
SPE Medical Plastics Division Chair’s Message – 2026 Update
I am honored to begin my term as Chair of the Medical Plastics Division. I would like to thank the MPD membership and Board of Directors for the opportunity to serve in this role. Their leadership and commitment have made possible the division’s many accomplishments over the past year, and I am proud to contribute to that ongoing, collaborative effort. I would also like to extend my sincere appreciation to our Past Chair, Ned LeMaster, for his dedication, leadership, and mentorship throughout his two-year term.
As we move through the first quarter of 2026, I would like to take a moment to reflect on what we have accomplished so far this year and to share a look ahead at where I see opportunities for our division.
Strong Start to the Year
We finished off 2025 with an outstanding program at MD&M MidWest and have continued our momentum with a fantastic presence at MD&M West and ANTEC in 2026. These events continue to be a cornerstone for our division, and this year was no exception. Thank you to MD&M MidWest MiniTec chair Rob Klien, MD&M West MiniTec chair Trisha Cousteux, ANTEC programming chair Len Czuba, and the entire MPD technical programming committee for their outstanding efforts to create these programs.
At MD&M West, we hosted 29 speakers and welcomed over 100 attendees, creating valuable opportunities for technical exchange, networking, and community building. It’s encouraging to see continued enthusiasm and engagement around medical plastics. We’re grateful to everyone who contributed their time and expertise. Creating opportunities to exchange ideas, to educate, and to forge meaningful connections with our membership remains a top priority for the MPD. A special thank you to our sponsors for their continued support.
Investing in the Next Generation
One of the highlights of this year has been the launch of our scholarship program, developed in collaboration with our industry partners at IGS GeboJagema. After a rigorous review process, we awarded our first scholarship to highly deserving students at MD&M West. I’d like to thank our partners at IGS GeboJagema, the scholarship committee, and Chairman of our Student Outreach Committee Rob Klein for making this effort possible.
This initiative reflects our commitment to supporting emerging talent in our field and the enthusiasm our industry partners and sponsors have for generous giving to support education and outreach. Looking ahead, we see an opportunity to expand this program and continue reinvesting in the future of our industry.
Recognizing Excellence
I’d like to extend congratulations to Pierre Moulinié, our division secretary, who was recently named a Fellow of SPE at ANTEC. This is a significant honor and is a testament to Pierre’s longstanding contributions to both the Society and our division.
At MD&M West, emeritus Board of Directors member and former SPE President Len Czuba was recognized with the Glenn Beall Founders award as a testimony to his committed service to the Medical Plastics Division. Congratulations, Len!
Looking Ahead: Growth and Opportunity
As many of you know, SPE is moving forward with its merger with the Plastics Industry Association (PIA). We see meaningful opportunities in this collaboration.
PIA brings strong industry connections and corporate engagement, while SPE continues to serve as a technical authority. Together, this creates potential to:
Expand our membership base
Enhance the reach and impact of our technical programming
Increase corporate sponsorship and partnerships with technology advancement as the driving principle
We’re optimistic about what this means for the future of our division, and we will continue to put the advancement of science, engineering, technology, and sustainability first.
The well-deserved recognition honors his career defined by technical excellence, industry leadership, and unwavering service to the medical device community.
Watch Americhem’s free on-demand webinar: The PFAS-Free Future and the New Rules of Sustainable Design
As PFAS regulations accelerate, manufacturers need proven alternatives. This webinar explores PFAS replacement strategies and PFAS-free technologies at Americhem, highlighting internally lubricated compounds for medical and industrial uses and surface-modifying additives for nonwovens. WATCH NOW
SPE’s premier technical conference, to explore the forefront of plastics technologies, polymer research, and innovative processes. More than 450 professional from around the world for two and half days of technical sessions and networking.
Milad Azami’s popular presentation “3D-Printed TPU Composites and Foams with Triboelectric Properties for Smart Knee Implants”.
Ned passing the leadership keys to Chris Lyons at the annual meeting after the ANTEC sessions.
Fellows of the Society Award
Dr. Pierre Mouline is an industry-based researcher. Dr. Pierre Moulinie is primarily an industry-based researcher. He developed transparent blends of PC with other polymers, led research to create high gloss PC/polyester blends with reactive additives and to stabilize PC/polyester blends, developed new PC materials for multiple medical applications, and is currently leading the development of medical grade PC materials for improved performance and for use with electronics-containing products.
Dr. Ramani Narayan, along with Pierre were elected to the ranks of Fellows of the Society.
Congratulations and Thank You to Our 2026 Leadership
The Society of Plastics Engineers – Medical Plastics Division is a global network of professionals dedicated to advancing the use of polymers in medical devices and pharmaceutical applications.
Our mission is to provide a platform for the exchange of technical knowledge and to foster collaboration across the MedTech ecosystem. Through our programming at events like our annual MiniTec programs and ANTEC, we deliver cutting-edge insights and practical knowledge on emerging materials, processing methods, and regulatory trends.
The Society of Plastics Engineers – Medical Plastics Division is proud to welcome and congratulate our newly elected board members!
We are the leading platform for the scientific and engineering community to exchange technical information on medical applications using plastics and polymers.
With their leadership, we foster:
Knowledge exchange across the MedTech ecosystem
Cross-industry collaboration and networking
Cutting-edge programming at MiniTec, ANTEC, and partner events
Insights into emerging materials, processes, and regulatory trends
Real-world learning from engineers, innovators, researchers, and manufacturers
Please join us in welcoming the incoming board and thanking those who have served and continue to support this work!
We are pleased to welcome Ajay D. Padsalgikar, Technical Director at Biolinq Incorporated, as a newly elected board member of the Society of Plastics Engineers – Medical Plastics Division. Ajay brings decades of expertise in polyurethane chemistry, morphology, and processing for medical devices, with experience across global organizations including Huntsman Polyurethanes, AorTech Biomaterials, Abbott Labs, and DSM Biomedical. He currently leads material solutions for biosensor technologies at Biolinq. With more than 30 scientific publications, 10 patents, and two books focused on medical plastics, Ajay combines deep technical knowledge with innovation leadership. We look forward to his contributions to advancing the medical plastics community.
Gregorio Manuel Vélez-García, PhD, Process Scientist at Zeus Industrial Products Inc., brings nearly 20 years of industrial and academic experience spanning pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, plastics manufacturing, additive manufacturing, and medical devices. An active SPE member since 2001, he has contributed to MPD’s Membership and Communications Committees and helped strengthen member engagement. With senior roles at Edwards Lifesciences, Stryker, and Zeus, Gregorio combines deep technical expertise with a passion for knowledge sharing and advancing innovation within the medical plastics community.
William Boston Morris, a Polymer Materials Engineer at Siemens Energy, recently completed his PhD in Materials Science and Engineering at Colorado State University following a bachelor’s degree in Chemical and Biological Engineering. His doctoral research developed thermoplastic elastomer-hydrogel composites, a promising new medical plastic designed to provide hydrophilic low-friction intrinsically to styrenic TPEs, such as SEBS, for medical devices like catheters and soft tissue mimics.
Will has experience working with a startup commercializing this technology and managed a materials testing lab at his university, where he trained and mentored students. He is currently working as a polymer materials engineer at Siemens Energy, developing wear resistant, filled polymer composites and conducting polymer failure analysis.
We are excited to announce that Joanne Moody, Principal Consultant at Zeta Scientific LLC, has been elected as a board member of the Society of Plastics Engineers – Medical Plastics Division. Joanne brings more than 25 years of medical device industry experience and is widely recognized for her expertise in adhesives, plastics bonding, and joint design challenges. Through Zeta Scientific, she supports organizations ranging from startups to Fortune 500 companies, helping teams overcome development barriers and bring innovative products to market. Joanne has played an active leadership role within SPE MPD, including supporting the Minnesota MiniTec conference and strengthening member engagement. We are excited to continue benefiting from her technical leadership, collaborative spirit, and commitment to growing the medical plastics community.
Please join us in welcoming Chris Konitzer, Managing Director at MediPlas Market Development Group, as a newly elected board member.
The MediPlas Market Development Group provides market and technical insights in the healthcare materials sector. He has previous experience at Avient and Dow Corning/Dow Chemical. Chris has 20+ years of experience in Marketing, Business Strategy, Business Development, and Sales. He thoroughly enjoys building new relationships, which fuels his passion for collaboration. Chris has served on the SPE-MPD Board of Directors as Sponsorship Chair for the past 3 years, doubling sponsorship support for MiniTec each year. He has a BS in Chemical Engineering and an MBA with an emphasis in International Business Development and Marketing.
