Speakers 2025
Aline Titizian
Aline Titizian, RN, BScN, CPN(C) – Clinical Resource Specialist. Aline joined Medline in April 2022. She has a Bachelors in Science degree and post graduate certificate in Operating room from
September 19-21, 2025
MDRAO Conference 2025
MDRAO is thrilled to announce that our next conference will be taking place from September 19-21, 2025. We are committed to bringing you an engaging, educational, and unforgettable experience. Building on the success of our previous conferences, we’re excited to offer a diverse range of informative speakers, dynamic workshops, and thought-provoking panel discussions.
About the Conference
An Experience You Will Never Forget.
Beyond the exceptional learning opportunities, we are dedicated to fostering a vibrant community atmosphere. You can look forward to numerous networking events, multiple social gatherings, dedicated lounge spaces, and some exciting surprises throughout the conference. Stay tuned for further updates as we finalize our list of distinguished speakers and workshop details – we can’t wait to share more with you soon.
Attending Delegates
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Speakers & Workshops
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Industry Exhibitors
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Prestigious Awards
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Our Venue for 2025
We’re excited to announce that the 2025 MDRAO Conference will be held at a brand-new venue – the Sheraton Toronto Airport Hotel & Conference Centre. This spacious, modern venue offers ample room for our growing event, featuring over 10,000 square feet of dedicated vendor space, ideal for exhibitors to showcase their products and services.
To accommodate our expanding number of delegates and vendors, we’ve selected this larger venue to ensure that everyone has a comfortable and engaging experience. It’s the perfect setting to network, explore new ideas, and collaborate with like-minded professionals in the MDR community. We can’t wait to welcome you to this new and exciting venue for what promises to be our best conference yet.
*PLEASE MAKE SURE CHANGE YOUR ARRIVAL DATE TO THU, SEPT 18 or FRI, SEPT 19TH or SAT, SEPT 20TH to ensure availability.
Our 2025 Speakers
This year’s program is taking shape. Check out our 2025 Speaker lineup.
Stay tuned for further updates as we finalize our list of distinguished speakers and workshop details – we can’t wait to share more with you soon.
Speakers 2025
Chris Antonucci
Chris Antonucci STERIS As Vice President of Global Marketing – SPD Reprocessing, Chris leads global product development roadmaps, portfolio management, and long-term business strategy. Under his leadership, the SPD Reprocessing
Speakers 2025
Dr. Atila Nozari
Dr. Atila Nozari is a Senior Medical Liaison, at 3M specializing in Medical Device Reprocessing for USA and Canada. Prior to that he was a Scientific Affairs and Education Specialist
Keynotes 2025
Dr. Sajel Bellon
Dr. Sajel Bellon Sajel is a globally recognized as a #Humanizer, Psychotherapist, and champion of high-quality human LIFE experiences. With a deep passion for the behavioral neurosciences and a knack
Speakers 2025
James Reid
James Reid CSA Group James Reid has dedicated nearly a decade to supporting professionals in the healthcare field through his role as a Relationship Manager at the CSA Group. With a
Speakers 2025
Jeff Graansma
Jeff Graansma University of Waterloo Jeff Graansma is an engineering research lab director at University of Waterloo. He started in automotive research as a technician and has progressed over 12
Keynotes 2025
Jeff May
Jeff May The May Development Group Inc. Jeff May is President of The May Development Group, with over thirty years of experience helping organizations address complex workforce, leadership, and succession challenges. He has worked
Speakers 2025
John Kimsey
John Kimsey STERIS John Kimsey is a seasoned healthcare management professional who helps leadership teams and sterile processing departments optimize operational performance. Leveraging 10 years of non-healthcare management consulting experience,
Ready to choose your ticket?
Have any questions?
If you have any questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at conference@mdrao.ca.
Conference Schedule
We will be updating our program soon with the 2025 Speakers’ information. Stay Tuned!
AGM
5:30 PM - 6:15 PM
Annual General Meeting
- Hotel
- Macintosh Room
Hosted by
MDRAO Board
Host
Member Social
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
MDRAO Member Social
- Network with other MDRAO member delegates
- Meet the Provincial and Chapter Board members
- Hotel
- Olio Restaurant - Back Room
Hosted by
MDRAO Board
Host
Breakfast
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM
Breakfast
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Opening Remarks
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM
Intro / Welcome Message
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
MDRAO Board
Host
Keynote Presentation
8:40 AM - 9:40 AM
Keynote Presentation & Video
Behind every sterilized instrument is a human being. A professional working under pressure, with precision, and often invisible. Medical Device Reprocessing is more than a technical job. It is a critical act of service and safety. Yet far too often, those doing this essential work are overlooked, overwhelmed, or worn down by toxic thinking patterns that thrive in many high-stress, low-recognition environments.
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Keynote
Dr. Sajel Bellon
Keynote Speaker
Presentation
9:40 AM - 10:25 AM
Improving the Margin of Safety – The Importance of Duodenoscope Sterilization
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Speaker
Melanie Marshall
Speaker, ASP
Concurrent Sessions
10:30 AM - 11:15 AM
11:20 AM - 12:05 PM
11:20 AM - 12:05 PM
Instrument Care & Handling Workshop
- Hotel
- Collingwood Room
Concurrent Sessions
10:30 AM - 11:15 AM
11:20 AM - 12:05 PM
11:20 AM - 12:05 PM
Technologies for MDRD & Endoscope Reprocessing
- Hotel
- Algonquin Room
Lunch
12:05 PM - 1:00 PM
Lunch
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Presentation
1:00 PM - 1:55 PM
Generations Working Together:
Unlocking the Power of a Multi-Generational Workforce
In today’s Canadian workplace, six generations contribute their unique values, strengths, and perspectives—but bridging these differences requires intentional effort. This session explores what shapes each generation, strategies to communicate and motivate effectively, and approaches to maximize the potential that every age group brings. You’ll leave with fresh insights and practical ideas to build stronger, more collaborative relationships across generations and create a workplace culture where everyone thrives.
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Speaker
Jeff May
President, The May Development Group Inc.
Presentation
2:00 PM - 2:25 PM
Crafting Excellence in MDR:
Standards, Training, Certification and Collaborative Committees
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Speaker
James Reid
Speaker, CSA Group
Concurrent Sessions
2:30 PM - 3:05 PM
Solutions to Eliminate Steam System Risks to MDRD and Patient Care
This session explores common risks associated with steam systems in Medical Device Reprocessing Departments (MDRDs) and their impact on patient safety. It presents proven solutions to improve steam quality, ensure proper use of clean steam, and enhance system reliability in compliance with healthcare sterilization standards. Attendees will gain insights into best practices that reduce contamination risks and optimize equipment performance
- Hotel
- Collingwood Room
Speaker
Shahrooz Hashemian
Speaker, Spirax Sarco
Concurrent Sessions
2:30 PM - 3:05 PM
MDRD Jeopardy – Play to prevent
This game-based presentation will engage the audience, while increasing their knowledge on sterilization, infection control, and surgical instruments handling. The competitive and collaborative aspects of the game foster teamwork, critical thinking, and quick decision-making skills, all of which are essential for maintaining high standards in the healthcare setting.
- Hotel
- Algonquin Room
Speaker
Aline Titizian
Medline
Coffee Break
3:05 PM - 3:15 PM
Networking Coffee Break
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Presentation
3:20 PM - 4:00 PM
Streamlining Workflows and Increasing Compliance using Next-Generation BI/PCD’s.
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Speaker
Presentation
4:05 PM - 4:50 PM
Reimagining MDRDs: Strategic Models, Automation, and AI for the Future of Reprocessing
This session will explore how MDRDs can proactively plan for the future by exploring strategic reprocessing models, integrating automation within their workflow and embracing artificial intelligence (AI). We’ll also examine how automation can complement—not replace—human expertise. By offloading repetitive tasks, automation empowers staff to focus on critical decision-making and quality assurance, enhancing both productivity and job satisfaction
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Concurrent Sessions
4:55 PM - 5:30 PM
From Decontam to Clean - Every Step Counts!
- Hotel
- Collingwood Room
Speaker
Kimberly Todd
Southmedic
Vendor Social
5:30 PM - 7:30 PM
Vendor Meet & Greet
- Meet with and greet with Vendors
- Located in the Exhibitor Hall
- Hotel
- Ambrosia Ballroom & Foyer
Garden Social
8:15 PM - 10:15 PM
Garden Social
presented by ASP
- Hotel
- Sheraton Outdoor Garden
Sponsored by ASP
Vendor Booth Setup
12:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Vendor Booth Setup
- Hotel
- Ambrosia Ballroom
Breakfast
7:45 AM - 8:25 AM
Breakfast
- Hotel
- Main Hall
Opening Remarks
8:25 AM - 8:35 AM
Intro / Welcome Message
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Speakers
MDRAO Board
Speaker
Keynote Presentation
8:35 AM - 9:35 AM
Keynote Presentation
In this high-energy, laugh-out-loud keynote, High Performance Coach and Author Michelle Cederberg shares research from her latest book The Success-Energy Equation. After years of studying top-in-class professionals, in multiple industries, she’s uncovered remarkable truths about what drives success, health, happiness at every level, and offers up a new view on what it takes to optimize high performance in today’s stress-filled world
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Keynote
Michelle Cederberg
Keynote Speaker
Presentation
9:35 AM - 10:35 AM
Innovation in Motion- Value in Grassroots Partnerships
This session will be discussing the ongoing partnership between Movarion and WRHN Midtown, and how it has led to productive outcomes in MDR, and its future going forward
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Vendor Visits
10:35 AM - 12:20 PM
Exhibitor Hall
- Hotel
- Ambrosia Ballroom & Foyer
Lunch
12:20 PM - 1:10 PM
Lunch
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Presentation
1:10 PM - 1:55 PM
MDRA Live! Hands-On Competition to Improve MDRA Performance
Participants will be able to explain workflow balancing through proper equipment and staffing. They will learn the importance of communication and impacts of activities on downstream quality and efficiencies. Participants will be able to explain the importance of training, visual aids, and technology in improving compliance and quality.
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Speakers
Dr. John Kimsey
STERIS
Presentation
1:55 PM - 2:40 PM
Lean MDRA – Implementing Best Practices to Improve Performance
Participants will be able to explain the five fundamentals of Lean MDRA of Positive Culture, Active Leadership, Quality Outcomes, Compliance, and Efficiency. They will be able to explain specific performance improvement best practices to improve MDRA operational performance. Participants will also learn leadership routines and specific actions to take to improve and sustain MDRA performance.
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Speakers
Dr. John Kimsey
STERIS
Vendor Visits
3:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Vendor Exhibitor Hall
- Hotel
- Ambrosia Ballroom & Foyer
Cocktail Reception
6:30 - 7:30 PM
Cocktail Reception
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom Foyer
Gala & Awards Banquet
7:30 PM - 11:30 PM
Gala & Awards Banquet
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Breakfast
8:00 AM - 8:30 AM
Breakfast
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Opening Remarks
8:30 AM - 8:40 AM
Welcome Message
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Speaker
MDRAO Board
Host
Presentation
8:40 AM - 9:40 AM
The TACO Method: How to Have Difficult Conversations (Without Losing Your Cool)
Nobody teaches us how to have difficult conversations—at work, at home, or anywhere in between. In this engaging and practical keynote, leadership and communication expert Leisse Wilcox introduces The TACO Method, a simple, four-part emotionally intelligent framework that equips attendees to navigate uncomfortable conversations with confidence and clarity. Whether it’s resolving conflict with a doctor, a vendor, a teammate, or a family member, this talk empowers participants to speak up, solve problems, and strengthen relationships across all areas of life.
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Speaker
Leisse Wilcox
Speaker
Presentation
9:45 AM - 10:35 AM
Sterilization Under Pressure: Properly Challenging Every Cycle—From Steam to Low Temp
Proper sterilization is a cornerstone of patient safety, but not all sterilizers—or cycles—are created equal. This session explores the critical steps to properly challenge sterilization processes across a range of technologies, including steam, hydrogen peroxide and other low-temperature methods. Participants will learn how to select the right indicators, understand biological and chemical indicator monitoring requirements, and integrate evidence-based practices for routine monitoring. Whether you’re working with legacy steam sterilizers or cutting-edge low-temp systems, this program ensures you’re equipped to confidently challenge each cycle and maintain compliance with best practices and standards.
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Coffee Break
10:35 AM - 10:45 AM
Networking Coffee Break
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Presentation
10:50 AM - 11:30 AM
Ultimate MDRD Jeopardy
Put your skills to the test in this interactive MDRD Jeopardy session! We’ll combine hands-on refreshers of Aesculap instrumentation and sterile containers, while challenging you with fun, fast-paced questions on MDRD best practices, Aesculap, and Trudell knowledge. Learn, laugh, and compete for bragging rights as the ultimate MDRD Jeopardy champion.
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Speaker
Steve Mortier
Trudell
Presentation
11:35 AM - 12:20 PM
Standardization and Automation of Endoscope Pre-Cleaning
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Speaker
TBD
Fibertech
Roundtable / Panel Discussion
12:25 PM - 1:15 PM
TBD
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Closing Remarks
1:20 PM - 1:30 PM
Closing Remarks - with take-home lunch
- Hotel
- Muskoka Ballroom
Vendor Booth Teardowns
8:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Vendor Booth Teardown
- Hotel
- Ambrosia Ballroom
Conference Partners
Our 2025 Sponsors
Looking to sponsor our 2025 Conference? Visit our sponsorship page for more information.
