J. Michael Cude: Innovator in Medical Plastics

The world of medical plastics owes much to the visionary leadership and innovation of J. Michael Cude, whose illustrious career spans over 40 years. Inducted into the esteemed Plastics Hall of Fame in 2024, Cude’s impact on the industry is profound, from pioneering medical device innovations to revolutionizing manufacturing processes.

In 1979, Cude began his journey with Hospital Disposables, where he played a pivotal role in developing a range of plastic container products. These innovative containers replaced traditional stainless steel and glass in American operating rooms, ushering in a new era of efficiency and patient safety. Designed to optimize sterilization efficiency and reduce costs, these products became the cornerstone of the surgical procedure pack market, a legacy that endures to this day.

Building on this success, Cude founded Atlantic Molds International in 1983, focusing on toolmaking that prioritized production cost efficiency and machine uptime. His innovative approach integrated automation, turbulent cooling and quick changeovers, resulting in highly productive tooling with low manufacturing costs. Cude's commitment to “design for manufacturability” revolutionized product design, ensuring ease of manufacturing and meeting performance requirements.

As the vice president of Engineering for DeRoyal Plastics Group from 1989 to 1999, Cude continued to drive innovation in medical device manufacturing. He spearheaded the development and expansion of a product line for plastic medical devices used in cardiac catheterization and interventional radiology procedures. Notably, Cude patented a guidewire bowl design that addressed procedural challenges in imaging labs, solidifying his reputation as an industry leader.

In 1999, Cude joined Coeur Inc., where he led the development of an entire product line of disposable plastic products for the imaging market. His expertise extended to extruded tubing products, showcasing his versatility and deep understanding of plastics manufacturing. Recognizing the need for automation, Cude oversaw the establishment of a medical device assembly plant in Mexico, implementing innovative tooling concepts and processes that gave Coeur a competitive edge.

Following Coeur’s acquisition by ITW in 2012, Cude assumed the role of Global Director of Innovation and Engineering, overseeing operations across six plants in three countries. His leadership and vision continued to drive advancements in medical plastics, ensuring products met rigorous quality and regulatory standards.

In 2019, Cude ventured out to establish Cude Advising, leveraging his unparalleled expertise to assist clients in translating customer needs into tangible product designs. With a focus on tooling, automation and manufacturing processes, Cude continues to enable companies to produce high-quality products at low costs.

With an impressive portfolio of 19 patents, J. Michael Cude stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence in the medical plastics industry.