Why You Should Upskill for the Irish MedTech Industry
With technology continuously advancing, it’s no surprise that the medical industry is implementing more medical technology devices. These advances are creating a strong, powerful industry, which is perfect for anyone looking to break into a new career.
We’re detailing a clear guide on why you should upskill for the Irish MedTech industry, so you can be a part of this massively growing field.
What is MedTech?
MedTech is the term used to describe all medical device products, services or solutions that are used to save and improve people’s lives.
MedTech devices can play a range of roles in maintaining and restoring health. Some of the equipment includes plasters, glasses, and monitors. And it also includes larger-scale MRI scans, X-Ray machines, wheelchairs and cardiac pacemakers.
Ultimately, new medical technologies can save the lives of many. They can improve health conditions and contribute to more sustainable healthcare both in Ireland and worldwide. With new medical technologies, the entire industry gives value to the public, healthcare professionals, and the greater healthcare system.
If you’re interested in bettering healthcare, aiding healthcare professionals, and giving people the opportunity to better their lives, then a career in MedTech may be the right choice for you.
But as the industry continues to grow, it will only become more competitive. Although there are plenty of opportunities with new jobs created often, it never hurts to upskill your current experience and knowledge!
Why Upskill for the MedTech Industry?
Now that we’re clear on what MedTech entails and the value it provides, the question remains: why upskill for the Irish MedTech industry? Here are 3 major reasons why you should consider doing so!
The Perfect Opportunity to Upskill
You can build a career in several ways. Traditionally, you chose an industry, get a foot in the door and work your way up the ladder. In recent years, we have seen that people prefer to work across a variety of businesses for short periods to develop a more rounded experience. A big part of that trend is the need to upskill.
Upskilling is a great way to re-energise a career or move in a new direction. It’s a way to build on skills you have and apply them in a more lucrative or more exciting area. If you’re looking for a change or want to try your hand in a new industry, there are huge opportunities in the MedTech industry both in Ireland and internationally.
MedTech Ireland Is a Huge, Growing Industry
The MedTech industry is such a good opportunity because it’s one of the largest and fastest-growing industries in the country. Ireland is the 2nd largest exporter of MedTech products in Europe with annual exports of €12.6 billion and companies here directly export to over 100 countries. Ireland is fast becoming a hub for the MedTech industry with over one hundred MedTech companies based here. Ireland is the second-largest employer of MedTech professionals in Europe, per capita. 9 of the world’s top 10 Medical Technology companies have a base in Ireland and 60% of the 450 MedTech companies here are indigenous. We have a very strong services and contracts research and manufacturing base here. 50% of the companies located here are in the B2B space.
That continued investment and MedTech’s vital place in the Irish economy will lead to further growth in the sector, and growth means jobs. The demand for MedTech knowledge has never been higher.
It’s Not Just For Scientists
The demand in these industries has expanded beyond pure science talent too. MedTech is already an extremely skilled industry with more than 40,000 people directly employed in the sector; however, the skillsets required are becoming more and more varied. Technology is changing the way most businesses operate and MedTech is no different, with increasingly sophisticated processes creating a need for new skills. These businesses are more than manufacturers; they are large, global businesses, meaning they require commercial and business skills to complement the technical side of the business. Upskilling in areas like data analytics, MedTech operations and technology will put you in demand.
What can you do with a medical technology degree?
A medical technology degree can open plenty of doors for you within the medical industry. Plenty of popular positions include technician careers, such as clinical laboratory technicians and diagnostic related technicians. Other popular positions include careers such as registered nursing or medical services managers.
Upskilling in the MedTech industry can provide you with a wealth of opportunities.
Build a Promising Career For Yourself
9 out of the world’s top 10 MedTech companies are located here in Ireland. Some of the largest companies based here include Boston Scientific, Abbott, GlaxoSmithKline, Allergan, and Medtronic. If you would like to find out more information about Ireland’s MedTech sector please visit the Irish MedTech Association.
Having some of the top MedTech manufacturers in the world in Ireland creates many opportunities for career growth. Most of the larger organisations invest heavily in their staff offering opportunities to adapt, upskill, and move up the career ladder. Upskilling to move into the MedTech industry may fit into the modern career template of varied experience, but it could also be the first step on an established career path in the MedTech sector.
MedTech is a growing industry all over the world especially in countries such as Australia, Singapore, Canada, France, India and the Philippines. The global MedTech market is projected to grow to $595 billion by 2024. No matter if you want to stay here in Ireland or you’re looking to move abroad, your degree in medical technology will serve you.
Where Could I Work In the Irish MedTech Industry?
Ireland’s MedTech sector is recognised as one of the five global emerging hubs with 9 out of the world’s top 10 MedTech companies based here. The opportunity to work in the MedTech industry in Ireland is huge!
Graduates from our programmes can fill roles in various MedTech companies. Some of the top name companies include:
- Abbott
- BD
- Boston Scientific
- Cook Medical
- GE Healthcare
- Johnson & Johnson
- Lake Region Medical
- Medtronic
- Merit Medical
- Nypro
- Nelipak
- Smith & Nephew
- Stryker
- West Pharma
- …and more
A Medical Technology Careers List
There are numerous careers you can pursue within the medical technology industry. And when you upskill in MedTech, you may find yourself looking into one of the following careers:
Clinical Laboratory Technicians
Clinical laboratory technicians are skilled scientists who research and discover the presence or lack of diseases. Through collecting samples, analysing tests, and researching tissue, body fluids or other substances, they provide data to help doctors determine the proper treatment plans for patients. While clinical laboratory technicians don’t work directly with patients, they are critical in providing proper care and treatment for them.
Diagnostic Related Technicians
Diagnostic technicians use a variety of MedTech devices and imaging equipment to provide physicians with proper data and images to properly diagnose and treat patients. In this field, you may work with X-ray equipment, CT or MRI equipment, and sonography equipment to assist physicians in diagnosing patients.
Medical & Health Services Managers
Medical and health services managers are directors, planners, and coordinators in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities. They often work behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly and efficiently.
Health Practitioner Support Technicians
Health practitioner support technicians work in a variety of settings and fulfil a broad range of job responsibilities. Some technicians use specific medical training to diagnose, prevent, and treat illnesses. While others have more technical skills to allow them to perform procedures or operate specific MedTech equipment.
General Healthcare Support Occupations
Someone working in a general healthcare support occupation to provide aid to healthcare professionals to complete their tasks. Positions include dental assistants, pharmacy aides, occupational therapy assistants, and nursing assistants.
Medical Device Consultant
These consultants work directly with developers and manufacturers of medical devices. They work alongside producers to ensure devices follow relevant regulations. Consultants also work to correct any technical issues or defects with the medical devices.
How to Upskill for the MedTech Industry
If you’re ready to upskill for the MedTech industry in Ireland, you’ll need to take the right steps to get there. The first step is finding the proper programs that will allow you to bolster your skills and your resume so you can open the door to a MedTech career.
What Med Tech Programs Are Out There?
To eventually hold a senior position in the MedTech industry, you may ultimately need a PhD or a postgraduate diploma in medical technology.
For entry-level positions, you can land a job with a bachelor’s degree and certificate programmes in medical technology.
Innopharma offers several MedTech programmes to help you get started in the industry. Whether you’re looking for a fresh start in a career or you’re looking to transition into MedTech, we have a programme for you.
How Can I Apply?
Students with many different backgrounds and career experiences complete our courses. For our Certificate programmes, applicants need a Leaving Certificate or equivalent.
For our Higher Diploma/ Honours Degree programmes, applicants must have a Level 7 Ordinary Degree in a science, engineering or a related discipline.
And for our Masters and Postgraduate Diploma programmes, applicants need a Level 8 Honours Degree or Higher Diploma in science, engineering or a related discipline.
In certain cases, we also offer APEL applications, where an applicant’s previous work experience can be deemed relevant to their course application.
You can check out our specific medical technology courses below:
- Certificate in Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Operations
- BSc in Process Technologies – Pharmaceuticals and MedTech
- Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Device Technology and Business
As the MedTech industry in Ireland continues to grow, organisations are looking for new skills and talent. While more jobs are created, some positions are proving to be more competitive. Get yourself ready for a new career by upskilling for the MedTech industry. Find out more about our MedTech degree programmes!
