The Orthotic & Prosthetic Innovative Technologies Conference 

The Orthotic and Prosthetic Innovative Technologies Conference (OPTech) is now an official event of the American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists.

Created out of a deep commitment to advancing patient care, OPTech ensures that the O&P profession remains at the forefront of innovation. This unique conference highlights transformative developments from parallel fields—including robotics, material science, artificial intelligence, and informatics—and fosters collaboration that accelerates the adoption of innovations that improve patient outcomes.

Intentionally designed as a collaborative forum, OPTech brings together academic researchers, entrepreneurs, clinicians, and industry leaders to share ideas, spark partnerships, and turn research into practical solutions for patient care.

Since its inception, OPTech has served as a unique gathering point for innovation in the orthotics and prosthetics profession.

Founder

OPTech was founded in 2016 by Matthew Garibaldi, MS, CPO, Academy Board of Directors member. The first conference was held at the University of California, San Francisco. In 2025, Mr. Garibaldi conveyed OPTech to the Academy, ensuring its future as a premier event dedicated to innovation in O&P.

Previous Conference Locations and Chairs

• October 26-26, 2016: University of California, San Francisco – Chair: Matthew Garibaldi, MS, CPO
• May 11–12, 2018: University of California, San Francisco – Chair: Matthew
  Garibaldi, MS, CPO
•  May 16-17, 2019: University of Michigan – Chair: Jeffrey Wensman, BSME, CPO
• May 19–20, 2023: Gillette Children’s – Chair: Michelle Hall, MS, CPO, FAAOP(D)

June 5–6, 2026
The William and Ida Friday Center for Continuing Education, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Chair: Sean Zeller, MBA, MSPO, CPO
Director of Prosthetics and Orthotics, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Who Should Attend?

• Orthotists and Prosthetists eager to stay on the leading edge
• Researchers and developers looking to collaborate on clinical applications
• Investors and entrepreneurs seeking opportunities in healthcare innovation
• Educators and students shaping the next generation of O&P professionals

Conference Details:
More information will be shared as it becomes available.