San Diego State University and two other local organizations offer free biotech education and job training to more than a thousand people.
Veterans, unemployed and displaced adults living in San Diego and Imperial counties can apply for the program called BRIDGE.
The acronym stands for Biotechnology, Readiness, Immersion, Certificates & Degrees for Gainful Employment.
BRIDGE is a collaborative effort of SDSU, the BIOCOM Institute, Miramar College and the San Diego Workforce Partnership.
The program offers hands-on job training and formal education up to a Master’s degree for adults who want to work in San Diego’s biotech industry.
Joe Shapiro, dean of the College of Extended studies at SDSU, is one of two program administrators who emphasize job readiness from an entry-level lab technician to graduate degree management positions.
“Through the bio- collaborative placement services and training opportunities we offer employee skills like interviewing and resume writing, connections to job boards, mentors and internships to enhance your possibility of getting a job,” Shapiro said.
Veterans are especially encouraged to apply, explained Shapiro.
“There’s a focus on outreach specifically to the veteran group. We have a small number of veterans already involved in the program. And certainly we’re always looking for ways to increase their involvement in local occupations,” he said.
To make it easier for working adults, Shapiro said some courses are offered online.
A $4.95 million grant from the Federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act paid for the program.
Applicants must apply through San Diego State University College of Extended Studies.
