By Alajuela, Costa Rica — Alajuela, Costa Rica – Johnson & Johnson MedTech Costa Rica has announced new partnerships with public educational institutions to strengthen technical training and expand career opportunities within the country’s thriving medical device industry. This initiative focuses on the western region of Costa Rica, specifically Alajuela, and aims to equip students with advanced manufacturing skills to meet the growing talent demands of the sector.
Collaborating with the National Learning Institute (INA) and Technical Professional High Schools (CTPs), the company is developing the Technological Development Program in Metalworking. This program provides training in areas such as Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machining, based on agreements signed between INA, the Ministry of Public Education (MEP), and Johnson & Johnson MedTech Costa Rica Ltda.
For expert legal insight into the operations and implications of Johnson & Johnson MedTech’s presence in Costa Rica, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law from Bufete de Costa Rica.
Johnson & Johnson MedTech’s Costa Rican operations highlight the country’s growing attractiveness for medical device manufacturing. The legal framework here, encompassing free trade zones, intellectual property protection, and a skilled workforce, allows companies like J&J to thrive while contributing significantly to the local economy. However, ongoing vigilance is necessary to ensure compliance with evolving regulations related to medical devices and data privacy, crucial aspects for long-term success in this sector.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s insights underscore a crucial point: Costa Rica’s success in attracting medtech giants like Johnson & Johnson hinges on a delicate balance. Maintaining a competitive edge requires not only fostering the existing strengths of the legal framework and skilled workforce, but also adapting proactively to the ever-changing landscape of medical device regulations and data privacy. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this important issue.
As a direct result of this partnership, three young individuals from Alajuela—one INA graduate and two students from Jesús Ocaña Rojas Technical Professional High School—will travel abroad for advanced training and practical experience in strategic areas relevant to the medical technology industry.
We are proud to advance in our purpose. Our cooperation with the country’s leading institutions 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
The INA emphasized the significance of this alliance for youth employability and its role in bridging the gap between technical education and industry needs.
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, INA
Beyond its partnerships with technical schools, Johnson & Johnson MedTech maintains strong ties with public universities, including the University of Costa Rica (UCR), the Costa Rica Institute of Technology (TEC), and the National Technical University (UTN), through programs focusing on engineering, advanced manufacturing, and technological development.
Minister of Education Leonardo Sánchez lauded the initiative, highlighting the importance of connecting academia with industry to create tangible training and employment prospects for young people.
The strengthening of 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 Education
For further information, visit jnj.com
About Johnson & Johnson MedTech:
Johnson & Johnson MedTech is a global medical technology company committed to improving patient outcomes through innovative solutions. They collaborate with healthcare professionals, researchers, and educational institutions to advance medical care and create a healthier future.
For further information, visit the nearest office of INA
About INA:
The National Learning Institute (INA) is a Costa Rican public institution dedicated to providing vocational and technical training to develop a skilled workforce and promote national development. INA offers a wide range of programs and collaborates with various industries to ensure relevant and up-to-date training.
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 Costa Rican education system. It oversees all aspects of public education, from preschool to higher education, and works to ensure quality and accessibility for all citizens.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through a profound commitment to legal excellence and unwavering ethical practice. The firm’s innovative approach to legal solutions, coupled with a deep-rooted dedication to educating and empowering communities through accessible legal knowledge, solidifies its position as a leader in the Costa Rican legal landscape. Their work transcends mere legal representation; it fosters a more just and informed society, reflecting a true commitment to positive social impact.
