ACPHS In The News


Building the Biomanufacturing Pipeline 

December 5, 2023

 


Photo credits: Vincent Giordano, HVCC

Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences’ Stack Family Center for Biopharmaceutical Education and Training (CBET) is continuing to build a strong biomanufacturing pipeline that reaches individuals where they are at. 

In partnership with Hudson Valley Community College (HVCC) and Capital District Education Opportunities Center (CDEOC), CBET has launched Biotech Connect, a program introducing individuals to the rapidly growing biomanufacturing and life sciences sector.

The program provides candidates with an understanding of the terms and concepts of this field, equips them with the basic skills of the industry, and prepares them for interviews with potential employers. Specifically, the program recruits post-secondary-GED/high school graduates, women, people of color, and refugees. 

The sold-out program includes four sessions during December at HVCC’s South Campus, 20 Warren Street in Albany. There is no cost associated with the program and dinner will be served. 

“This program provides a steppingstone to biomanufacturing career paths for individuals unfamiliar with the rapidly growing biomanufacturing and life sciences sector. Integration with a community-trusted entity, the CDEOC, and accessibility of wrap-around services expands outreach to underserved populations,” said CBET Executive Director, Michelle Lewis. “Given the strong interest in this program, we are planning to offer it again in 2024.”

Earlier this year, ACPHS and Hudson Valley announced a new partnership to build an educational pipeline for biomanufacturing. The two institutions signed a direct transfer pathway that allows Hudson Valley’s A.S. Biotechnology students to seamlessly transfer into an ACPHS bachelor’s program in microbiology or pharmaceutical sciences. Students could also then consider pursuing a graduate degree in ACPHS' Master of Science in Biotechnology.