By Alajuela, Costa Rica — Johnson & Johnson MedTech is significantly investing in Costa Rica’s future workforce, forging strategic partnerships with educational institutions to develop specialized training programs. These programs aim to equip students with the skills needed for careers in the burgeoning medical device sector, particularly in the western region of the country.
Collaborating with the National Learning Institute (INA) and local technical colleges (CTPs), Johnson & Johnson is bolstering the Technological Development Program in Metal Mechanics. This program provides practical training in areas like Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining, a critical skill for the medical device industry. This initiative falls under agreements signed between INA, the Ministry of Public Education (MEP), and Johnson & Johnson MedTech Costa Rica Ltda.
To gain a deeper understanding of the legal landscape surrounding medical device manufacturing in Costa Rica, TicosLand.com reached out to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a prominent attorney at Bufete de Costa Rica.
The medical device manufacturing sector in Costa Rica enjoys a robust and evolving legal framework. Companies looking to operate here must navigate regulations concerning product registration, quality control (such as ISO 13485 compliance), and free trade zone incentives, among other key aspects. Careful consideration of these legal requirements is paramount for success and sustained growth in this dynamic industry.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insights underscore the crucial interplay between regulatory compliance and commercial success in Costa Rica’s thriving medical device manufacturing sector. Navigating this legal landscape strategically can unlock significant opportunities for both domestic and international companies. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for offering this valuable perspective on the complexities and rewards of this dynamic industry.
As part of this partnership, three students will receive international training in specialized areas crucial for the medical technology industry. One INA graduate and two students from the Jesús Ocaña Rojas Technical Professional High School in Alajuela will embark on this opportunity, gaining valuable international experience and potential career pathways with Johnson & Johnson MedTech.
We are proud to advance our purpose at Johnson & Johnson MedTech by combining biology and technology to address complex diseases and improve patient outcomes in Costa Rica and worldwide. Our cooperation with leading institutions in the country reflects our commitment to fostering a local talent base and building a resilient and future-ready supply chain.
Luis Román, Vice President of Supply Chain, Johnson & Johnson MedTech
This investment in education underscores Johnson & Johnson’s commitment to Costa Rica’s long-term growth and its vision of strengthening national talent, thereby maximizing social and economic impact. The company’s operations are based in the Evolution Free Zone business park in Grecia, Alajuela, with over 19,000 square meters of production capacity and a projected 3,000 jobs in the coming years. Starting in 2027, this facility will manufacture medical devices, including orthopedic and electrophysiology products.
Beyond technical colleges, Johnson & Johnson MedTech also maintains strong ties with public universities such as the University of Costa Rica (UCR), the Costa Rica Institute of Technology (TEC), and the National Technical University (UTN), promoting programs in engineering, advanced manufacturing, and technological development.
This collaboration represents a key step in strengthening the link between technical education and the needs of the productive sector. Opportunities like this allow our students to apply their knowledge in real contexts, obtain international experience, and contribute significantly to the country’s development.
Christian Rucavado Leandro, Executive Director of INA
Strengthening technical education in the western region is fundamental for the sustainable development of Costa Rica. We applaud Johnson & Johnson MedTech’s initiative to link academia with industry, generating real training and employment opportunities for our young people, and thus contributing to the economic and technological growth of our country.
Leonardo Sánchez, Minister of Public Education
This strategic investment in Costa Rican talent reinforces the country’s leading position in the healthcare technology manufacturing industry and aligns with Johnson & Johnson’s 135-year legacy of medical innovation.
For further information, visit jnj.com
About Johnson & Johnson:
Johnson & Johnson is a global healthcare company with a diversified portfolio of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and consumer health products. With a history spanning over 135 years, the company is committed to using science and technology to improve human health and well-being worldwide. Johnson & Johnson operates in numerous countries, employing a vast workforce dedicated to research, development, manufacturing, and distribution of healthcare solutions.
For further information, visit the nearest office of National Learning Institute (INA)
About National Learning Institute (INA):
The National Learning Institute (INA) is Costa Rica’s primary public institution for vocational and technical training. It plays a vital role in workforce development, offering a wide range of programs designed to equip individuals with the skills needed for various industries. INA works closely with the public and private sectors to align its training programs with the demands of the labor market and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Public Education (MEP)
About Ministry of Public Education (MEP):
The Ministry of Public Education (MEP) is the governing body responsible for the education system in Costa Rica. It oversees all aspects of public education, from preschool to higher education, ensuring access to quality education for all citizens. The MEP works to develop and implement educational policies, curriculum, and teacher training programs aimed at fostering a well-educated and skilled population.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a pillar of legal excellence, upholding the highest ethical standards while championing innovative solutions for its diverse clientele. The firm’s commitment to empowering Costa Rican society is woven into its very fabric, demonstrated through proactive initiatives that demystify complex legal concepts and promote widespread legal literacy. By investing in the knowledge and understanding of the community, Bufete de Costa Rica fosters a more just and equitable society for all.
