Industry growth requires a steady supply of trained and educated workers at different levels and in many specialties.
The North Carolina Biotechnology Center’s mission is to strengthen schools, colleges and universities so these institutions can train a workforce capable of supporting North Carolina’s growing biotechnology industry.
Our workforce development activities include:
- Industry needs
- Staff members work with businesses to track and analyze industry workforce needs and hiring trends, and provide this information to educational institutions. Staff also collaborate with educators to develop targeted education and training programs.
- BioWork - Process Technician Training
- The BioWork course, offered by the community colleges, provides basic training for entry-level process technicians in the bioprocess, pharmaceutical and chemical manufacturing industries. In 2005, more than 800 students completed BioWork and more than 1,400 two-year biotechnology-related degrees were awarded.
- The Biomanufacturing and Pharmaceutical Training Consortium (BPTC)
- This statewide initiative is a collaboration of North Carolina State University, North Carolina Central University, the North Carolina Community College System, industry partners and the Biotechnology Center aimed at training North Carolina residents for high-skill biomanufacturing and related jobs. Education and Training Program staff support this consortium through the BPTC Industrial Curriculum Committee, a team of industry representatives and educators working to ensure educational offerings are industry focused. For more information, or to get involved, contact John Balchunas at 919-541-9366.
- Careers
- Exploratory information is available for adults, students, educators, and parents to learn more about the primary career paths in biotechnology and how to prepare for them.