A partnership between medical device companies and a group of community/technical colleges forms the medical device industry education consortium (MDIEC). The consortium is creating a learning and innovation network to build the first degree programs that incorporate the regulatory and quality topics integral to all aspects of medical device operations. This involves designing, developing, and delivering curricula in the following areas: (1) medical device technologies and quality systems; (2) medical device document/information management; and (3) clinical data management for product design, development, and approval. The consortium, MDIEC, is building national initiatives through an existing network of regional industry/college alliances. MDIEC colleges are located in regions with a high concentration of medical device-related firms. These firms, along with their extensive base of suppliers, are adding significant numbers of technicians. An external evaluator is conducting formative and summative evaluation activities and the approach relies on participatory research and is concentrating primarily on measuring the benefits to students and companies. A website is being established to communicate information to all MDIEC colleges, industry partners, and prospective students. The U.S. colleges and industry are also partnering with companies in Denmark and Ireland to ensure an international perspective.
