Connecting students to careers in one of the goals of GrowNextGen. At the recent Ag and Med Biotech Academy workshop, industry leaders shared about career opportunities and the need for people to fill job spots.

Jane Fife of 3Bar Biologics shared about the need for microbiologists and lab techs. “I challenge you all to help develop students with the skills needed to do these jobs,” Fife said that students with training for medical microbiology could easily step into work at their company.

At lunch, teachers heard from a variety of leaders eager to expand students’ career knowledge. Otterbein professor Sarah Bouchard said the workshop provided a chance for attendees to see the campus and the STEM opportunities offered at Otterbein.

BioOhio president and CEO Eddie Pauline explained how their organization works to bring attention to the bioscience industries in Ohio. “We need a strong talent pipeline in Ohio for these businesses, and you are driving that,” Cook told the teachers. He offered to help teachers find bioscience businesses in their area that would let the students take a tour and learn more.

Horacio Lopez-Nicora, OSU plant pathology professor, said he welcomed teachers bringing students for tours of the greenhouse and field work activities. “I believe everyone learns better when they get their hands dirty,” Lopez-Nicora said.

GrowNextGen is known for these kind of partnerships, bringing industry experts right to the teachers to make connections with the workplace. Visit our leader page to see all the people available to support you in the classroom!