BioTC’s hands-on training model eliminates traditional barriers like costly, lecture-based instruction by focusing on practical skills and direct lab access. In partnership with companies like Wheeler Bio, the center customizes training to reduce onboarding time and accelerate hiring. Designed for individuals with a minimum of a high school diploma or GED, the program prepares entry- level technicians for roles in production, analytics and quality control to help grow Oklahoma’s biotech workforce. “This program is the future of medicine here in Oklahoma, and if you keep pushing forward, it’s going to be an amazing career for you,” said Priscilla Aguilar, a graduate of the first cohort. Wheeler Bio partnered with BioTC to fill roles on its solution preparation team, adapting curriculum to focus on CDMO-specific skills, including lab math, batch records and pH and conductivity testing. Applicants applied through BioTC and were jointly interviewed by both organizations. Four candidates were selected, and upon completing the one-week program, earned certification and began full-time roles at Wheeler Bio. “If I can do it, you can do it, honestly. I went from being a barista to a full career change,” said Jayson Short, another graduate of the program. The partnership between BioTC and Wheeler Bio helped bridge a critical skills gap by preparing new hires for the specialized demands of a contract manufacturing environment. BioTC’s intensive approach allowed participants to simulate real job responsibilities before starting at Wheeler. As a result, the company reduced its typical onboarding period to as little as 60 days, with new employees arriving already familiar with the equipment, processes and expectations. “We’re still in the early stages of building a biotech and biomanufacturing presence here in Oklahoma, but the industry itself has been around,” Keylon said. “BioTC represents the real catalyst that will get us fully started in the field.” Applications for BioTC are open at www.biotcoklahoma.com.
OKC FAME As part of its workforce development efforts, the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber launched OKC FAME in fall 2024 to support the region’s growing manufacturing sector. As Oklahoma’s first chapter of the nationally recognized Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education, the program offers a two-year degree in engineering technology from Oklahoma State University- Oklahoma City to provide students with classroom learning and paid, hands-on experience. The program is now accepting applications for the final seven spots in its 2025 training cohort, offering students a powerful blend of classroom instruction and paid, hands-on experience with local manufacturers. Applicants should meet the following criteria: • High school seniors or recent graduates interested in mechanical or engineering-related work • Students considering careers in industrial trades or who may not plan to attend a four-year college • Individuals who are motivated, open to feedback and eager to learn • Students interested in a two-year program that combines paid work with cohort-based education • Students who want to build technical and professional skills The selection process will continue over the next three to four weeks. Interested students can apply for free online. For more information, visit the OKC FAME website, OSU-OKC’s website or contact Lee Copeland, director of talent programs and partnerships at the Chamber, via phone at
405-297-8803 or via email at lcopeland@okcchamber.com.
9
Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online