IRCC, biotechnology working to make an impact
BYLINE: CHARLES R. LUNCEFORD II Indian River Community College
Research to find an early detection marker for cancer, development of medications to combat diabetes, new vaccines to ward off illness -- these lifesaving endeavors are within the repertoire of the biotechnology industry -- an industry that will have far-reaching benefits for the Treasure Coast, an industry that we want to attract to our region as we evolve into the Research Coast.
It is expected that biotechnology will have a greater impact on life in the 21st Century than any other human endeavor, and Treasure Coast residents can become a part that field through education at Indian River Community College.
The college has several initiatives and partnerships to train and certify biotechnology technicians. That education will provide a foundation for four-year degrees and continued education in this growing field.
The first initiative began in 2004 and will be completed later this summer. The college and others are training students with a bachelor's degree in another field for a new career in biotechnology. Classes are being held at the college's main campus in Fort Pierce, utilizing IRCC's specially equipped biotechnology laboratory. A total of 27 students will complete the program by August, preparing them for positions with biotech companies.
The second initiative will begin in May. Indian River Community College, in collaboration with the University of Florida's Banner Center for Excellence in Biotechnology, will train workers statewide through on-line learning modules and lab sessions. IRCC is one of three Florida community colleges offering this curriculum. The program pays all tuition and lab costs.
Starting this fall, IRCC will offer an associate in arts degree program with emphasis in biotechnology. Elective credits focus on science, including biology, chemistry, organic chemistry and of course, biotech.
Graduates can transfer to any state university, where bachelor and graduate degrees in biotechnology are being added each year.
Whether you are interested in research, bio-manufacturing, lab work, computer data work known as bioinformatics, or managing biotech workplaces, a specialization in biotechnology will give you the foundation for a career in biotech and and related life sciences.
IRCC continues to assist business partners with workforce training. IRCC works closely with local employers and
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collaborates with our educational partners from kindergarten through high school to move those students into the biotech field.
For more information on biotech educational programs, call the information call center at (866) 866-4722.
Charles R. Lunceford II is assistant dean of arts and sciences at Indian River Community College.
BUSINESSES INVITED TO BIOTECHNOLOGY FOCUS GROUP
The University of Florida's Employ Florida Banner Center for Biotechnology and Workforce Florida, Inc. are seeking input from business leaders connected to biotechnology and related fields.
Representatives of business, industry, and economic development organizations are invited to a focus group meeting on May 21 from noon to 3 p.m. at the Indian River Community College Kight Center for Emerging Technologies in Fort Pierce. Lunch will be served.
Key objectives include trends that influence the biomedical industry, what technical skills and knowledge are most critical, human resource needs, what subjects areas should employees and new hires be proficient in, what is required to make recent graduates competitive job applicants, and what are the optimal educational delivery methods. For more information and to participate, contact the IRCC Arts and Sciences Division at (772) 462-7500.