Medlands Parkstad, a powerful alliance
Press Release – December 12, 2024
Medlands Parkstad is a strong alliance for attracting talent and creating 3,000 new jobs in the medical technology sector. A broad collaboration has been established to attract, train, and retain talent for the Medtech sector in Parkstad.
The companies Medtronic, Boston Scientific, DocMorris, and Abbott, together with educational institutions VISTA College, Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, and Maastricht University, as well as the municipalities of Heerlen and Kerkrade and the Parkstad Limburg City Region, have launched Medlands Parkstad.
Medlands highlights the importance of the Medtech sector as one of the largest industries in Parkstad, making it crucial for regional development. This alliance boosts regional progress, talent development, and social innovation within the Medtech sector.
On December 12, 2024, Medlands Parkstad was officially launched as a broad partnership between businesses, educational institutions, and governments in the Parkstad region. Companies such as Medtronic, Boston Scientific, DocMorris, and Abbott, along with knowledge institutions VISTA College, Zuyd University of Applied Sciences, and Maastricht University, as well as the municipalities of Heerlen and Kerkrade and the Parkstad Limburg City Region, are focusing on attracting, training, and retaining talent in the Medtech sector.
"Medlands Parkstad showcases the power of collaboration," say Alexander Geers, Alderman for Economy of Municipality of Kerkrade, and Martin de Beer, Alderman for Economy of Municipality of Heerlen and Chairman of the Economic Committee of the Parkstad City Region. "By working together with companies like Abbott, Boston Scientific, DocMorris, and Medtronic, we not only make the region more attractive for new talent but also drive economic growth. Alongside organizations such as the Bovengrondse Vakschool, JINC, Beyond, and WSP Parkstad, companies are committed to broad social development by offering training and job opportunities to untapped labor potential."
With an ambition to create 3,000 new jobs by 2030, Medlands is investing in regional development, talent development, and strengthening the Medtech sector. The program includes collaboration on branding, education, labor market initiatives, and infrastructure.
"We believe in a future where time and distance are no longer barriers to high-quality healthcare," says Frank Schaapveld, Vice President Service & Repair EMEA & APAC at Medtronic and Chairman of the Medlands Parkstad Foundation. "The logistical solutions and innovations developed here will make a global difference in patient care."
From Parkstad, over 53 million packages are shipped annually to 29,000 hospitals, supporting more than 56 million patients worldwide.
Impact
- Growth to 9,000 jobs by 2030, in a sector that already employs 6,000 people.
- Development of educational programs and career opportunities at all levels (from vocational to university education).
- Contribution to economic and social progress in the region, with a global impact on healthcare.
"At Medlands, both thinkers and doers can thrive," says Jeanette Oostijen, Chair of the Executive Board of VISTA College and Board Member of the Medlands Parkstad Foundation. "We provide a platform where careers in the Medtech sector take shape, from secondary education to university level, ensuring that everyone can maximize their potential."
With the launch of Medlands Parkstad, a multi-year program has been set in motion, focusing on the themes of branding & communication, education, labor market development, and infrastructure. Medlands Parkstad is funded by the Regio Deal Parkstad, partner companies, and the municipalities of Heerlen and Kerkrade.
Medlands Parkstad invites companies, educational institutions, and governments to join this powerful network and contribute to a sustainable, innovative future for healthcare.