MassBioEd’s Apprenticeship Programs

As the life sciences sector continues to grow, the demand for skilled workers—especially in biomanufacturing—has become more urgent. According to a recent MBI survey, there is going to be a need for 1,200 new biomanufacturing related roles within the next 24-36 months in Central Massachusetts alone. To satiate the industry, MBI helps fund MassBioEd’s Apprenticeship programs through our Workforce Challenge Grants. MassBioEd’s Biomanufacturing Apprenticeship and Life Sciences Apprenticeship initiatives aim to provide diverse, underrepresented groups with the technical training and job experience required to fill high-demand roles in the biomanufacturing field. Through a combination of on-the-job, paid training and classroom-based technical education, the Biomanufacturing Apprenticeship Program helps participants gain the hands-on experience necessary for a successful career in the life sciences industry. Apprentices learn industry-recognized skills, including laboratory procedures, equipment handling, and quality control processes, that prepare them for entry-level biomanufacturing positions.

What sets this program apart is its commitment to diversity and inclusion. MassBioEd focuses on recruiting individuals from historically underrepresented communities, such as people of color, women, and veterans, with a particular emphasis on those affected by unemployment or underemployment. By offering mentorship and guidance, the program aims to open doors to long-term career opportunities in biomanufacturing, providing participants with a path to stable, sustainable employment. The Biomanufacturing Apprenticeship Program also strengthens the local workforce pipeline by partnering with major industry players like Bristol Myers Squibb, Pfizer, and Alexion. These partners not only support the program but also offer apprentices the opportunity to gain real-world experience that increases their chances of securing full-time roles in the life sciences sector.

As Massachusetts continues to lead in life sciences innovation, programs like MassBioEd’s Biomanufacturing Apprenticeship are critical for developing the skilled, diverse workforce needed to support this dynamic industry.