The Life Science Industry in Utah is one of the fastest-growing industries in the country.  Since 2002, the annual growth in Utah life science employees was 3.5%, compared to 2.0% for all other companies in Utah. We were thrilled to be a part of the growth and open our doors to the Center for Medical Innovation’s office and prototyping lab this Fall. We sat down with their Administrative Officer, Jenny, to learn more about the magic behind the scenes, how she has seen the industry change, and her favorite features of The Shop.

1.  Can you describe the work you do for The University of Utah: Center of Medical Innovation?

I am the Administrative Officer for the Center for Medical Innovation.  Basically, I make all the things behind the scenes happen😊

2.  Are there any exciting products/projects CMI is working on right now?

The CMI is entering an exciting time.  We have an amazing new Executive Director who has a passion and vision for growth. We are developing a med-tech accelerator that will help bring devices from idea to commercialization. Our biggest “project” is our Bench to Bedside competition which is a student-led healthcare innovation competition.  Students form multi-disciplinary teams to find clinical problems and develop innovative solutions all culminating in a competition that takes place at the Utah State Capitol with the grand-prize winner taking home $20,000 to be used as milestone funding to further their product.

3.  How have you seen the medical industry evolve over the past 10 years?

The healthcare industry has seen some exciting changes in the past decade, especially here in Utah.  The Life Science Industry in Utah is one of the fastest growing industries in the US. Currently, there are over 1900 life science companies in Utah and Utah is ranked #5 in the nation with employment growth adding over 40,000 jobs.

4. What is your favorite part about working at The Shop?

The members and AMAZING staff.  I love the sense of community here.  And the floor to ceiling windows don’t hurt either!

5. How has working at The Shop benefited your overall workflow?

I feel more productive because I love the space.  It is so inviting and comfortable and there are so many options for places to set up and work.  Sometimes a change of scenery is all you need.

6.  Do you have a favorite place or best-kept secret of Salt Lake City / Utah?

The shop rooftop!! Big fan!