Biotechnology is taking center stage as the world seeks renewable energy sources and sustainable technologies and products. The growth of this industry brings with it an increased workforce demand for scientists and lab technicians who meet the advanced job skills requirements.
Genencor, a leading global industrial biotech company, has been providing innovative solutions in the biotech industry for more than 25 years, and has a strong commitment to recruiting and training aspiring scientists through its forward thinking internship program. The program initially offered summer internships to students through San Mateo High School's Regional Occupational Program (ROP) in Biotech; however, with the rising demand for higher-skilled workers, it recently expanded its program to include students from Ohlone College.
Started in early 2010, the Ohlone College-Genencor internship program allows students to earn three credit units by working a maximum of 20 hours per week. Genencor's process technicians work directly with the interns in each of the assigned environments. "In the beginning stages of the program, technicians invest a lot of time teaching students but eventually they become more confident and begin working on their own," said Hugh Fox, a Genencor process technician. "That's the ultimate goal of the program-that we give aspiring scientists the tools they need to explore and discover this fascinating career path."
Genencor Operations Manager Sandi Woods is a member of Ohlone's Biotechnology Advisory Committee. Woods said, "It is such a wonderful experience for students to see the options they have as they prepare for their career. Talking with renowned scientists, engineers and technicians as they walk through Genencor's fermentation, recovery, formulation, media preparation and analytical laboratories motivates students to continue their scientific studies."
Woods hopes that by 2014, dozens of students will complete Genencor's internship program and find jobs in the biotech industry: "Creating a program that targets community college students has so much value, as we need to encourage our up-and-coming workforce to pursue more technical jobs."
To learn more about the CCCEWD's California Applied Biotechnology Centers and their programs, go to www.cccbiotech.org or contact Jeff O'Neal at (916) 484-8052 or onealj@cccewd.net.
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