Rebecca Stonecipher’s career path was never a foregone conclusion. As she put it, “I didn’t choose medical devices; medical devices chose me.” But what started with a mechanical engineering degree from Georgia Tech has become a specialization and a role supporting manufacturers through the Georgia Manufacturing Extension Partnership (GaMEP), where she is a project manager on the medical device team.
“My first job out of college was for a machine shop that specialized in machining implants and machining instrumentation,” said Rebecca, noting that the position gave her a foundation in both the technical and hands-on sides of manufacturing. From there, she continued to build expertise across the medical device field, gaining experience in support, research and development, regulatory work, and quality systems.
That range of professional reference points eventually led her to Georgia Tech, joining first the Global Center for Medical Innovation (GCMI) in 2023 and then GaMEP in January 2025. Now Rebecca is helping clients bring their devices to market, a process that requires highly specialized knowledge.
“Medical devices come with a lot of regulatory requirements,” she said. “Even though GaMEP has deep expertise in quality systems, the requirements for medical devices are just different enough that companies really need someone who understands that space.”
Rebecca works with companies at various stages of development. “Where people are in the life cycle of their device changes what their needs are,” she explained. For startups, she helps establish quality management systems and documentation. For more established manufacturers, she provides audits, training, and guidance to maintain compliance.
Much of her work involves translating between regulatory and technical teams. “How you talk to the FDA is very different than how you talk to your engineer or someone on the production floor,” she said. “Being able to bridge that gap is very useful.”
For Rebecca, the most fulfilling aspect of her career is watching ideas come to life, especially when the resulting innovations are poised to make a big difference. “It’s really cool to see something go from a napkin sketch to being used in the field,” she said. “These devices are helping people — treating, diagnosing, improving quality of life. That makes the job really fun.”
Outside of work, she pursues a hobby that reflects her engineering mindset: knitting. “I love yarn,” she said, adding that she often makes scarves, socks, sweaters for family members. “I’ve actually gotten to the point where I have too much stuff!” Not surprisingly for an engineer, Rebecca is strategic when it comes to pattens and materials, ensuring that her creations can stand up to everyday use.
“I think everyone should have a hobby where they make something,” she said. “There’s a really good overlap between the technical side of your brain and the creative side. It feels like magic, and it’s a way to do manufacturing at home.”
Contact Sharon at rebecca.stonecipher@innovate.gatech.edu to learn more about GaMEP’s Medical Device services.
