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Keynote Speakers Unveiled for the 2026 ISPE Annual Meeting & Expo

The International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE) has officially announced a lineup of distinguished keynote speakers for its flagship event, the 2026 ISPE Annual Meeting and Expo. Scheduled to transpire from October 18 to 21 in Washington, D.C., and virtually, this annual gathering is poised to attract industry professionals keen to explore the latest advancements in pharmaceutical manufacturing and engineering.

Speakers and Sessions

This year's session themes reflect an increased emphasis on innovation, technological advancement, and regulatory insight within the pharmaceutical sector. Keynote presentations, set to impress attendees, include:

• - "The Lonza Engine Manufacturing the Medicines of Tomorrow" by Dr. Wolfgang Wienand, CEO of Lonza, delving into the future of drug manufacturing processes.
• - "Lilly Embracing Technology to Reach Patients" presented by Kevin Trivett, Senior Vice President of Eli Lilly and Company, outlining how technology is transforming patient care.
• - "Whose Loop Is It Anyway? Command AI. Unleash the Human" by Dr. Marla Phillips, promoting an engaging discussion on artificial intelligence's role in the pharmaceutical field.
• - "An Extraordinary Life" featuring Jamie Valvano, a cancer survivor who advocates for research in overcoming the disease.

On the final day, attendees can participate in Global Regulatory Town Hall, a panel discussion covering pivotal advancements in data management, AI capabilities, and their implications for quality compliance. This interactive session serves as a cornerstone for improving safety and delivering high-quality therapies to patients worldwide.

Conference Tracks and Learning Opportunities

The agenda for this significant gathering incorporates five primary tracks, all meticulously designed to highlight crucial aspects of the pharmaceutical industry:
1. Advancing Innovative Therapies
2. Digital Transformation and Data Integrity
3. Regulatory and Quality Leadership
4. Resilient, Sustainable Operations
5. Workforce and Capability Development

Connie Langer, chairperson of the 2026 ISPE Annual Meeting International Program Committee, emphasized the interconnectedness of these tracks, explaining, "They narrate a unified story about how to seamlessly deliver innovation to patients."

The event also features interactive workshops scheduled for October 18, each aimed at fostering dialogue on critical topics such as:

• - Designing facilities to minimize operational risks
• - Strategies for sustainable sourcing and operations
• - Practical methods for digital validation
• - Creating standard manufacturing networks for efficiency
• - Future approaches to industry agility and continuous improvement

In addition to these educational sessions, a variety of extracurricular activities are planned, including a unique 2026 ISPE International Emerging Leader Hackathon and exclusive facility tours highlighting advancements in commercial cell therapy from industry giants like AstraZeneca.

New this year, attendees can relax and network at a dedicated pickleball zone in the Expo Hall, adding an element of fun and engagement to the meeting.

Registration and Participation

For professionals looking to be part of this monumental event, registration is open, along with further details available at ISPE.org/AM26. Participation in the 2026 ISPE Annual Meeting and Expo offers unparalleled opportunities to connect with leaders, share insights, and explore the future of pharmaceutical engineering together.

About ISPE

The International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering, founded in 1980, stands as a global authority amongst pharmaceutical professionals, supporting over 25,000 members worldwide through their commitment to enhancing the field's scientific, technical, and regulatory progress. With operations spanning across more than 120 countries, ISPE is dedicated to solving the industry's complex challenges through collaboration and innovation, headquartered in North Bethesda, Maryland.

For any further inquiries or information, visit ISPE.org.