BioConnect DE Biomanufacturing Training Program Celebrates First Graduating Class

ORIGINAL SOURCE: BioConnect DE

Innovative Initiative Addresses Key National Security and State Economic Priority

Event Marks Milestone in Transformation of Delaware Life Science Workforce

New Program Sees 96 Percent Graduation Rate

WILMINGTON, DE (July 28, 2025) –Twenty-four individuals were recognized today as the first graduating class of an important new training program designed to mobilize Delaware’s life science workforce.

The Delaware Center for Life Science Education and Training and the Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio) celebrated the first cohort of the BioConnect DE Biomanufacturing Training Program in a ceremony this morning at EastSide Charter School in Wilmington. The pilot program achieved a 96 percent graduation rate.

The event recognized successful completion of an intensive 8-week, tuition-free training program preparing participants for entry-level roles in Delaware’s growing life sciences sector, positions that typically do not require a college degree. Funded through a Congressionally Directed Spending grant, financial and other support from Delaware Bio and industry partners, the pilot initiative is a central pillar in BioConnect DE’s mission to expand and mobilize the state’s bioscience workforce.

“This graduation marks a critical step in addressing workforce gaps in the life sciences while creating new opportunities for individuals across our community,” said Katie Lakofsky, executive director of BioConnect DE. “We’re thrilled to celebrate our first group of graduates and excited to connect them with employers who are ready to invest in talent.”

“Today’s exciting celebration is the result of years of planning and focused, effective collaboration with partners across industry, the government and community organizations,” said Michael Fleming, president and CEO of Delaware Bio and founding chair of the Delaware Center for Life Science Education and Training. “But most importantly, it recognizes a remarkable group of individuals who – with many obligations and sacrifices – courageously raised their hands to serve patients and secure our state’s economic future.”

Program Conceived to Address Major State and National Economic Priorities

The BioConnect DE graduation comes after extensive assessment of Delaware life science industry employment needs and opportunities, which highlighted the imperative to accelerate development of a dynamic, prepared and resilient workforce for advanced manufacturing and operational roles.

This included multiple surveys and analyses, most recently the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology’s comprehensive report issued earlier this year urging immediate action for the US to remain competitive in the industry so vital to American economic interests.

The BioConnect DE biomanufacturing program curriculum was designed based on an in-depth review of employer needs and educational and training capabilities. An important facet of the program is extensive community outreach and communications to raise awareness of the great career opportunities in life sciences manufacturing.

Recruiting and Training a Dynamic Workforce to Meet Industry Needs

The $3 million, three-year pilot program recruits and trains individuals in basic laboratory and advanced biomanufacturing skills. The course featured several guest lectures from industry professionals representing Agilent, AstraZeneca, Tru Global, Talent Connect and the University of Delaware, providing students with valuable insights into real-world biomanufacturing environments.

In addition, students participated in a collaborative group project tasked with designing and presenting a training session to the class, providing hands-on experience in delivering training, communication and teamwork. Classroom sessions for the inaugural cohort were conducted in the EastSide Charter School’s new Chemours STEM Hub.

Graduates include individuals with backgrounds in healthcare, retail, hospitality, and other industries who are now equipped with essential skills in areas such as Quality Management Systems, current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), Good Documentation Practices, and Clean Room Procedures.

Graduates Hear from State and Community Leaders

Today’s ceremony included remarks from community and industry partners, including New Castle County Executive Marcus Henry, EastSide Charter STEM Hub director Ray Rhodes, industry representatives and BioConnect DE class members.

Job Placement Efforts Underway

Top local life science employers are actively engaged with BioConnect DE staff to consider program graduates for roles in their Delaware operations. Employers have received student resumes and profiles, participated in mock interviews, site tours and guest lectures and employer roundtable sessions will continue in the coming months for BioConnect DE graduates.

The Inaugural BioConnect DE Training Class of 2025

Glendora D Barksdale, Raquel Blandford, Salena Brown, Ashley Calloway, Metehan Cebeci, Sheila Chadman, Chandele Cheeks-Tunnell, Sam Davila, Samira Edwards, Tyler Flanagan, Melissa Golden, Erica Huss, Sarah LaTorre, Jorie Logan, Jerome Madison, Keneisha McIntosh, Taiylor Myers, Noel Samuel, Alize’ Ray, Chanise Roberson, Mikaelah Rollins, LoVesha Walton, Margaret Wright, Soleil Xavier

About BioConnect DE

Launched by the Delaware Center for Life Science Education and Training, a nonprofit affiliate of the Delaware BioScience Association, BioConnect DE serves as a central hub for job seekers, employers and training programs to advance career pathways in the biosciences. For more information about BioConnect DE and the Biomanufacturing Training Program, visit www.bioconnectde.org.

Contact:

Katie Lakofsky, Executive Director
katie@bioconnectde.org