Nearly 20,000 people work in biomanufacturing-related jobs in North Carolina. To train residents for these high-skill, high-paying jobs, the state has put together a comprehensive and unique training program to recruit, train and retain workers.
The Biotechnology Center has joined the North Carolina Biosciences Organization, the North Carolina Community College System, the University of North Carolina System to create and implement this program.
The partnership, called NCBioImpact, includes:
- BioNetwork, a statewide initiative created to develop a world-class workforce for the biotechnology industry. It connects more than 20 community colleges and includes six specialized centers with training for specific aspects of biotechnology.
- Biomanufacturing Training and Education Center. BTEC is an 81,000-square-foot biomanufacturing training and education facility at North Carolina State University. The pilot-scale production plant provides advanced, hands-on training and education for students and incumbent workers.
- Biomanufacturing Research Institute and Technology Enterprise. BRITE, located at North Carolina Central University, provides degree programs and laboratories for scholars conducting research in several areas critical to biotechnology and biomanufacturing.
Funding for the projects was provided by Golden LEAF, and industry contributed services and equipment to the process. The state's General Assembly provides operating funds for ongoing training.