Success Story: Biotech Boot Camp

By Latrice Lewis

The Biotech Boot Camp (BBC) is a FREE 4-Week Training Program for entry into the Biotechnology Industry. An industry-sector partnership formed between local bio-industry businesses, Frederick Community College, Frederick County Workforce Services, Frederick County Office of Economic Development, City of Frederick Economic Development, and our State resource MD Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP), to address the need for pipeline development in the Biotechnology industry.

Following is a success story shared by a graduate of the BBC program.

Introducing Arin, Production Technician 

What was your profession/job prior to the Biotech Boot Camp (BBC)? 

  • Prior to the Biotech Boot Camp, I was in college where I worked a customer service job and completed internships with the Maryland Park Service and the National Park Service. 

What is your current position and what was the starting salary (if you are comfortable sharing)? 

  • My current position is a Production Technician I, and the starting salary is over $50K per year. 

Do you have a college degree, if so, what was your major? 

  • I have a college degree in environmental studies (with biology and policy and management specializations). 

What made you decide/motivated you to attend the BBC? 

  • I had heard that some people in previous Biotech Boot Camps were successful in finding jobs in the industry after completing the course, so I thought it would be a good way to learn more about the industry and make connections on the way to employment. 

How has graduating from the BBC helped/changed your and/or your family’s economic future, as well as your career goals? 

  • Since I now have a job in the biotech field after completing the Biotech Boot Camp, my career goals have changed to focus on progressing in the local biotech industry. My economic future has also changed for the better after completing the Biotech Boot Camp, as I am now able to pay off my student loans and start saving money for the future. 

What would you share was the highlight or best thing you experienced by taking/completing the BBC? 

  • There were many highlights during the Biotech Boot Camp, but I especially enjoyed all of the networking opportunities and industry guest speakers, as well as the opportunity to work in the cleanroom at Valogic. 

Anything else you would like to add? 

  • I’m very grateful that the Biotech Boot Camp was available during my search for a career. I would recommend it to anyone who is interested in the industry or looking to gain valuable skills and connections. 

If you have an interest in pursuing entry level positions to begin a career in the Bioscience industry and would like additional information on the Biotech Boot Camp training program, please contact Latrice Lewis at LLewis@frederickcountymd.gov or 301-600-2762. Please be sure to follow us on social media, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and subscribe the JobConnect newsletter to be alerted to new program dates and additional opportunities.

Jessica Mills