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James Dreher
Founder, Managing Partner - Option3 LLC
Professional Background
Jim Dreher is a highly accomplished medical device entrepreneur with an impressive trajectory spanning over 20 years in the healthcare industry. His entrepreneurial journey began with the founding of multiple successful start-ups, showcasing his firm commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship within the medical field. Notable among these ventures are General Surgical Innovations, Inc. (GSI), Embolic Protection, Inc. (EPI), AccessClosure, Inc., and HotSpur Technologies. Each of these organizations has made significant contributions to medical technology and has garnered considerable financial success, reinforcing Jim's reputation as a leader in the medical device sector.
GSI, one of Jim's groundbreaking ventures, became publicly traded in 1996 and was subsequently acquired by Tyco Healthcare in 1999, demonstrating a remarkable growth trajectory in a short period. Following this success, EPI was acquired by the renowned Boston Scientific in 2001, showcasing Jim's knack for identifying and developing innovative medical technologies that resonate with major industry players. Additionally, HotSpur Technologies reached a similar pinnacle when it was acquired by Teleflex in 2012, and AccessClosure made headlines upon its acquisition by Cardinal Health in April 2014, further solidifying Jim's influence and expertise in the industry.
Currently, Jim serves as the Founder and Managing Partner at Option3, a medical device incubator that emphasizes fast-to-market technologies. This role allows him to continue fostering innovation within the healthcare sector while guiding promising start-ups toward successful launches. Option3's success is evidenced by its first two spin-out companies, Axiom Technology Partners and Atsina Surgical, both of which were acquired by Teleflex (Axiom in 2012 and Atsina most recently in August 2015).
Beyond his entrepreneurial endeavors, Jim engages actively in mentoring and advising. He is an advisor for the UCLA Technology Development Group (TDG) and the University of Utah's Center for Medical Innovation (CMI), where he supports budding innovators in navigating the complex landscape of medical device development and commercialization.
Education and Achievements
Jim Dreher's educational background sets a solid foundation for his career in medical entrepreneurship. He studied at Wabash College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Foreign Languages and Literatures. His academic pursuits did not end there; he also studied at the prestigious Université Paris Sorbonne (Paris IV), which reflects not only his commitment to education but also an appreciation for diverse cultures and languages—an asset in the global medical device market.
In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Jim has demonstrated a commitment to research and innovation. He has authored and co-authored a number of patents and patent applications, showcasing his capacity for inventive thinking and his active role in advancing medical technology. This blend of creative and technical expertise has positioned him as a thought leader in medical device innovation.
Jim is also an active participant in his community and alma mater. He serves on the Advisory Board for The Center for Innovation, Business, and Entrepreneurship (CIBE) at Wabash College, contributing his knowledge and experience to guide the next generation of innovators.
Personal Interests and Community Engagement
In addition to his professional commitments, Jim is a dedicated father who enjoys engaging in sports with his son, Dash. Activities like hockey, baseball, and basketball not only provide quality time with his child, but also emphasize the importance of teamwork and perseverance—values that are paramount in both sports and business.
Jim Dreher's journey is a testament to the impact of visionary leadership in the medical device industry. His commitment to advancing healthcare through innovative technologies, coupled with his passion for mentorship and community engagement, reflects a well-rounded individual whose work continues to benefit countless patients and healthcare practitioners around the globe. His legacy in the industry is one of success, innovation, and a commitment to excellence in medical technology.
