Starting today, October 6th, and ending on October 7th, regulatory professionals from around the world will gather in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania for RAPS Convergence 2025, the go-to conference for insights, networking, and future-focused discussions in medical devices, pharma, diagnostics, and more. Pre-conference workshops will take place on October 6 and 7, offering deep dives into specific topics before the main program begins.

If you are considering attending, or simply want to get more from your participation, here is what to watch, how to plan, and why this year’s edition matters.

Why Convergence 2025 is a Must-Attend

RAPS Convergence is widely regarded as the annual convening for regulatory affairs professionals, drawing more than 2,000 attendees from over 50 countries. What sets this year apart is the combination of breadth, access, and practical focus:

• Breadth of content: More than 150 educational sessions will cover critical domains including medical devices, IVDs, biologics, pharmaceuticals, regulatory strategy, skill building, and broader industry topics.

• Health authority engagement: Attendees will have direct access to FDA, EMA, and other regulatory agencies in forums and Q&A sessions. This creates opportunities to hear updates directly from regulators and to get pressing questions answered.

• Practical orientation: Many sessions are designed to translate policy into action, showing how to structure submissions, manage post-market obligations, or integrate digital tools and AI in regulatory workflows.

• Networking and connections: A robust lineup of receptions, meetups, and career-focused events will make it easy to connect with peers, mentors, and thought leaders.

• Continuing education: Participants can earn more than 15 continuing education units (CEUs) to support certification maintenance such as RAC.

Highlights to Watch For

Innovative Topics and Trends
Expect sessions on AI in regulatory pipelines, cybersecurity for connected devices, and regulatory technology that helps streamline submissions and audits. The program will also include tracks on emerging pathways, harmonization strategies, and global regulatory shifts.

Exhibit Hall and Certification Lounge
The exhibit hall will be active with industry vendors, technology demos, and the RAPS Certification Lounge at Booth 300, where attendees can ask credentialing questions and receive support.

Social and Signature Events
On October 8, the conference will host an evening networking event in the south end zone of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ home field, providing a memorable backdrop for informal conversations and new connections.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Attendance

1. Plan ahead
   With so many concurrent sessions, it is important to map out your must-attend talks before arrival. Decide which domain, such as device, pharma, or cross-functional strategy, you want to emphasize.

2. Engage early
   Join pre-conference workshops or smaller sessions, as these often allow for deeper conversations. Visit the exhibit hall early in the program to connect with vendors before the busiest hours.

3. Leverage authority forums
   When regulators are on panels, come prepared with questions. These sessions are rare opportunities to hear agency perspectives directly.

4. Network with purpose
   Bring business cards or a digital contact tool. Many of the best connections happen in hallways, receptions, and shared meals. Scheduling a few one-on-one meetings can make the experience even more valuable.

5. Capture insights and share
   Take detailed notes during sessions, then consolidate your takeaways. Share key points with your team to maximize the return on your attendance.

6. Follow up after the event
   Convergence does not end on October 9. Many local RAPS forums will host follow-up events or publish highlights, making it possible to extend the impact of what you learn.

Why QSN Readers Should Care

At QSN, our mission is to surface high-value insights, tactics, and trends in quality, regulatory, and scientific strategy. RAPS Convergence 2025 represents more than a meeting, it is a pulse check on what is changing in regulation and how leading teams are preparing. Attendees often return with actionable frameworks, stronger professional networks, and new approaches to keep their portfolios compliant and competitive.

For professionals driving innovation, Convergence is the place to benchmark, recalibrate, and prepare for the future.

If you have any regulatory needs that we can help you with, please feel free to contact us!