The training and education center covers core concepts and areas such as biomanufacturing, quality control, and aseptic operations, and is designed to prepare students to work across industries.
Montgomery County invested $3 million in the new 8,200-square-foot facility, combined with $1.25 million in operational and capital support provided to BioHub Maryland by the Moore-Miller Administration.
“Montgomery County’s BioHub Maryland Training and Education Center is a great opportunity to create local jobs and expand the county’s life sciences leadership,” said Montgomery County Executive Mark Elrich. “Our investment will enable job seekers from all educational backgrounds to gain in-demand biopharmaceutical skills in a state-of-the-art training environment, while giving employers the tools they need to drive the medical innovations that patients around the world rely on. We can provide a highly skilled workforce.”
To be eligible to enroll in the Workforce Center, prospective students must be a resident of Maryland, Washington DC, or Virginia, have a high school diploma, English proficiency, and authorization to legally work in the United States. must be. Students who are willing to commit to a week of on-site training and at least 10 hours of class per week in Montgomery County can find opportunities to advance their careers in the life sciences field.
According to Maryland Tech Council CEO Kelly Schulz, there are 60,000 such openings in the country, and many positions are readily available in Maryland. “Our industry partners have consistently shared that a strong biopharmaceutical manufacturing talent pipeline is essential to future growth in Maryland,” Schultz told BioProcess Insider. “Our new facility features curriculum from the internationally trusted National Institute for Biological Processing Research and Training, preparing students to compete for high-paying jobs and quickly gaining skills. We are confident that we can meet the industry’s need for an accessible talent pipeline.”
“We began enrolling students through partnerships with WorkSource Montgomery, the county’s leading workforce development provider, and veteran service organizations like Platoon 22, which helps veterans transition to civilian life. “I did,” Schultz said. “BioHub Maryland is also working with Maryland Technology Council member companies to raise awareness of upskilling and reskilling opportunities.”
Schultz said her organization encourages students to visit biohubmaryland.com where they can learn more about the program. “(The website) provides a comprehensive overview of the field, career pathways, and educational opportunities.” From there, students can connect directly to the program to find specific coursework and education tailored to their interests. Learn more about our training programs. “Each student’s journey is unique, and we have options to accommodate a variety of backgrounds and goals, from hands-on lab training to advanced technical research.”
“Our first group completed an intensive two-week masterclass to build knowledge and awareness of bioprocess design and operation,” said Schulz. They then received career development support, including resume writing and mock interviews, to ensure they were fully prepared for the job market. ”
Schultz said the education center is tailored to teach students skills relevant to the present and future of manufacturing, including coursework in data analysis, digital fluency and automation. The curriculum is also designed to focus on “soft skills” such as communication, problem-solving and adaptability.
