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IMPACT 3
A skilled and educated workforce with instruction that is relevant
to the dynamics of the contemporary workplace is essential for
building the biotechnology industry locally.

James Greenwood, CEO, Bio

EMBRACING THE FUTURE

Denise Schweizer
A s many U.S. manufacturing communities work to reinvent themselves, economic Chemistry Instructor,
BIFP Co-Principal Investigator

Rowan-Cabarrus
Community College
developers and higher education institutions have made significant investments

to build or expand their biotechnology industries, often leveraging
entrepreneurial and university resources. The emphasis on STEM education and skills is
prominent at all levels.
Workforce research tells us that success depends on two factors: increasing the number
of STEM students that pursue bioscience careers and continually improving STEM
education to effectively develop career-ready graduates. STEM instructors in colleges
and high schools are uniquely positioned to impact both factors.

Launched in 2014 with a grant from the NSF Advanced Technology Education program, Dr. V. Celeste Carter
the Bioscience Industry Fellowship Project (BIFP) equips exemplary STEM instructors and Program Director, Division of
Undergraduate Education,
returned veterans to take the lead in addressing these factors. Six years and fifty-eight NSF ATE
Fellows later, we believe the BIFP story is a valuable model for other regions and STEM
disciplines.

BIFP

[ WEEKLY SNAPSHOT ]

MONDAY

Hands-on bootcamp for advanced lab skills,
analysis, equipment and processes.
TUESDAY

Visit leading research institutions to understand
new bioscience directions and opportunities.
WEDNESDAY

Industry site immersion. Meet management and
employees. Tour labs and operations.
THURSDAY

Attend professional workshops, guest speakers
and conferences.
FRIDAY

Curriculum development sessions. Import
experiences into contextualized curriculum.