Al Smythe

Al Smythe has extensive work experience in research and development, particularly in the medical technology industry. Al started their career at Honeywell as a Research Scientist from 1987 to 1990, followed by a Research Scientist role at ATK from 1990 to 1992. Al then joined Boston Scientific Inc as a Director of Research and Development, where they worked from 1992 to 2010.

In 2010, Al moved to St. Jude Medical and served as the Vice President of Research and Development for the Atrial Fibrillation Division until 2012. Al was responsible for managing the development of various medical products, including cardiac mapping systems, EP recording systems, and RF ablation systems.

From 2013 to 2018, Al worked at 3M as the Director of Research and Development for Electromechanical Systems and Software. In this role, they led a corporate research lab and oversaw the development of new technology platforms for consumer and medical applications. Al also led product strategy and commercialization for multiple businesses and customer segments.

Al Smythe then joined Medtronic in 2018 as the Senior Director of Research and Development, specifically in Systems Engineering. After two years with Medtronic, they transitioned to their current role as the Vice President of Research and Development at ShiraTronics, Inc. Here, they are responsible for the overall research and development, operations, and manufacturing of an active implantable neurostimulator system for the treatment of chronic migraines. ShiraTronics is a venture capital-funded company focused on developing innovative therapies for debilitating migraine headaches.

Al Smythe attended the University of Minnesota from 1984 to 1989, where they pursued a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Aerospace Engineering and Mechanics.