Cal State Fullerton mechanical engineering graduate student Wendy Joya is developing high school and college curriculums, and degree and certificate programs to support the fast-growing industry of biomanufacturing.
With the demand for skilled professionals increasing rapidly, Sagil James, professor of mechanical engineering and Joya’s research adviser, said Southern California is becoming a hub for biotechnology and biomanufacturing. James said the field uses living systems, like cells, to produce medicines, vaccines and other biologically-based products.
“The largest job gains in the region in 2023 were observed in biotechnology, medical devices and equipment and research tools, all closely linked to biomanufacturing,” he said.
Joya is working on research to spark students’ interest in biomanufacturing careers, including using virtual reality technologies.
“I find it fascinating how this field turns scientific research into real products that improve lives,” Joya said.
Joya and James are working toward closing the skills gap, expanding equity in STEM fields and supporting the long-term growth of the biomanufacturing workforce. The goal is to provide students with hands-on experience, advanced tools and industry-relevant skills so they are ready to enter meaningful and well-paying careers, said James, who directs the project.
The faculty-student project is funded by a $129,208 grant from the Global HSI Equity Innovation Hub at California State University, Northridge. In 2022, CSUF received its first biomanufacturing workforce training grant.
CSUF is also hosting a Green Energy, Manufacturing and Technology Expo this week focused on clean energy, advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies. The expo invites students, educators and industry professionals to learn more about workforce development in advanced manufacturing, and explore the landscape of green technology and modern manufacturing.