Hollister Incorporated Tech Forum Promotes Collaboration and Sharing

Adel Sadik, Principal Scientist, Research & Development (R&D), stands in front of a one-of-a-kind device developed by Bill Givens, Sr. Research Technician. The device is a collection of glass tubes and hoses that at first glance, is reminiscent of a vacuum tube stereo receiver or amplifier. It's when you notice the digital displays on each tube and the adjacent computer screen that you realize this is one sophisticated piece of technology. 

The device measures fluid pressure on the membranes that we use with our ostomy pouch filters. A mobile app allows our engineers to monitor the performance of several membranes at one time, freeing up the engineers to do other things. The use of this device has made the testing of these membranes more efficient and it was one of the many technologies on display during this year's Hollister Tech Forum in June. 

Since 2002, the Hollister Tech Forum has taken place every other year at our Libertyville, Illinois, headquarters. The forum hosts all of our Associates involved in new-product development from around the world and across functions.

"The event is a great way to internally publicize and share what is taking place in R&D," said Joel Shutt, Principal Scientist, R&D, and Chair of the Tech Forum. "It's also a good networking opportunity for R&D Associates and the Hollister technical community."

An Agenda Full of Sharing and Networking

Over the course of the three days, attendees participated in large and small group workshops as well as plenary and poster sessions. It's during the poster sessions where Associates, like Adel, can share projects and technologies they are working on and make connections with the broader technical community. This year, there were more than 40 teams participating in the poster session, sharing their thoughts, ideas and innovations.  

Awards Dinner Celebrates Our Heritage of Innovation

The second night of the event was a first-ever awards dinner for the Tech Forum. Associates were recognized for innovation, smart risk taking, and outstanding technical contributions. Hollister Incorporated Board of Director members Liz Lindner and Richard Zwirner were special guests at the event, sharing stories about the early, formative days of Hollister. 

"It was interesting to hear the different perspectives about our founder, Mr. Schneider," said Russ Johnson, Senior Director, R&D. "It was clear that Mr. Schneider never compromised his morals as he took smart risks to grow his business. He was always looking ahead. And, that's what we need to continue doing in R&D."

At Hollister Incorporated, we are passionate about our work. Learn more about career opportunities and what it’s like to be a Hollister Associate.