BioConnect DE program celebrates 1st grad class, signals workforce shift in state life sciences

Jarek Rutz | July 29, 2025

A groundbreaking workforce development initiative marked a major milestone Monday as 24 participants became the first graduates of the BioConnect DE Biomanufacturing Training Program, an intensive, tuition-free course aimed at preparing Delawareans for careers in the state’s rapidly expanding life sciences sector.

The graduation ceremony, held Monday at EastSide Charter School’s Chemours STEM Hub, celebrated the achievements of the program’s inaugural class—96% of whom completed the rigorous eight-week curriculum.

The initiative is spearheaded by the Delaware Center for Life Science Education and Training and the Delaware BioScience Association (Delaware Bio), with funding from a federal Congressionally Directed Spending grant and support from industry partners.

“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.”

The BioConnect DE training program was launched to respond to both state economic priorities and national security concerns around the biomanufacturing workforce.

A recent report by the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology emphasized the urgent need to build a competitive U.S. workforce in this strategically vital industry.

Michael Fleming, president and CEO of Delaware Bio and founding chair of the training center, praised the collaboration that brought the program to life, calling it  the result of years of planning and focused, effective collaboration with partners across industry, government, and community organizations.

“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,” he said.

A new talent pipeline for biomanufacturing

The $3 million, three-year pilot program trains individuals in foundational lab and manufacturing skills, including Quality Management Systems, current Good Manufacturing Practices (cGMP), and Clean Room Procedures.

The program places special emphasis on accessibility—no college degree is required—and actively recruits candidates from diverse professional backgrounds, including retail, hospitality, and healthcare.

Guest lecturers from major employers such as Agilent, AstraZeneca, Tru Global, and the University of Delaware provided insight into industry practices.

Participants also completed a capstone project, designing and delivering training modules to their peers—an exercise that emphasized communication and collaboration.

Job placement efforts already underway

With graduation complete, BioConnect DE is now working to place graduates into entry-level roles with life sciences employers across Delaware.

Participating companies have already received student profiles, taken part in mock interviews, and attended site tours. Employer roundtables are planned in the coming months to accelerate job placements.

The 2025 graduating class includes:

• 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.

More information about the BioConnect DE Biomanufacturing Training Program is available here.

Source: https://townsquaredelaware.com/bioconnect-de-program-celebrates-1st-grad/