MICRO Marks 80 Years of Precision in Medical Device Manufacturing and Innovation

MICRO Celebrates 80 Years of Innovation

This year marks a significant milestone for MICRO, a family-owned contract manufacturing organization, as it proudly celebrates its 80th anniversary. Established in 1945 in Maplewood, New Jersey, as the Micro Stamping Corporation, the company has transformed from focusing on high-precision metal stamping to becoming a global leader in the medical device industry. Today, MICRO specializes in producing precision medical components, sub-assemblies, and complete devices for laparoscopic and robotic-assisted surgical procedures.

Over its eight-decade journey, MICRO has seen extraordinary growth. Originally housed in a modest 28,000 square-foot facility, the company now occupies an impressive 200,000 square feet across three adjacent buildings in Somerset, NJ. This expansion includes a dedicated research and development center and substantial cleanroom assembly spaces. Moreover, in Costa Rica, MICRO operates a facility with its own cleanroom and has been recognized with ISO 13485:2016 certification for its Medical Device Quality Management System.

Employing over 450 skilled individuals, MICRO has maintained a commitment to innovation throughout its history. Brian Semcer, the current president and descendant of the founder Frank Semcer Sr., reflects on the company’s evolution with awe. He mentions, “My grandfather would be amazed if he could see the company today. We’ve transitioned from supporting the vacuum tube industry to developing sophisticated surgical devices.”

One of MICRO’s notable achievements is the introduction of surgical ligation clips, a product developed using the same equipment that founded the company. Under Frank J. Semcer Sr.'s leadership, the company steadily increased its capabilities, now offering advanced technologies including tube fabrication, laser welding, surface finishing, and more. Remarkably, in 2024, their production hit over 100 million ligation clips and 3 million endoscopic instruments, contributing to revenues exceeding $125 million.

The emphasis on Design for Manufacturability has allowed MICRO to optimize product designs for production, thereby reducing costs while maximizing returns for their customers. Continuous investment in cutting-edge technology is a core principle driving MICRO forward, ensuring tailored solutions and innovation at every turn.

The success of MICRO can also be attributed to its esteemed employees, regarded as part of the extended family of the organization. “Our core values ensure we create a culture that values our team members, offering competitive benefits and training programs,” shares Frank J. Semcer Jr., who oversees human resources. This inclusive approach attracts top talent from diverse backgrounds, pushing the company further into the future.

As a fourth-generation family-run business, the legacy of innovation continues to thrive at MICRO. With a strong commitment to quality and technological advancement, the company is set to unveil its latest achievements during the upcoming Medical Design & Manufacturing (MDM) West event, scheduled for February 4-6, 2025, in Anaheim, California. Here, they aim to showcase their cutting-edge solutions to an audience eager to witness the evolution of medical device manufacturing.

In conclusion, as MICRO celebrates its significant 80-year anniversary, it stands as a testament to the power of innovation, dedication to quality, and commitment to patient care in the medical device industry. The future looks promising as they continue their mission to deliver high-quality medical devices for every generation.