In the heart of Houston, a transformative program is addressing a pressing need: equipping the next generation with the skills and opportunities to thrive in the biomanufacturing sector. BioPath at TMC was created to tackle the dual challenge of a growing demand for biomanufacturing talent and the need for greater career opportunities in the sciences for local students.
Houston’s biomanufacturing sector is experiencing rapid growth, yet the workforce required to meet this demand remains insufficient. Recognizing this gap, BioPath at TMC aims to bridge it by offering high school students hands-on experience and a pathway to successful careers in this vital field.
Ahtzerey’s Journey: From Curiosity to Career Aspirations
One of the standout stories from the BioPath at TMC program is that of Ahtzerey, a senior at Stephen F. Austin High School. Born and raised in Houston, Ahtzerey’s passion for the sciences was evident from an early age. Her love for environmental science in middle school evolved into a fascination with biology and chemistry during high school.
Ahtzerey’s interest in biomanufacturing was sparked by her freshman-year biology class, where she enjoyed hands-on experiments and the challenge of chemistry. Her journey with BioPath at TMC began when she discovered the program through DiscoverU, a program that connects students with various career opportunities.
At the camp, Ahtzerey was introduced to the world of biomanufacturing. “Seeing all the equipment and learning how to use tools like micropipettes and chromatography was eye-opening,” she recalls. The program not only provided her with practical skills but also clarified her career goals. “Before, I knew I wanted to work in science, but I wasn’t sure which field. BioPath at TMC helped me understand what a career in biomanufacturing could look like and made me more confident in pursuing it.”
Skills and Insights
Through BioPath at TMC, Ahtzerey gained valuable skills, from working with laboratory equipment to understanding real-world applications of biomanufacturing techniques. She particularly enjoyed learning about chromatography and the process of handling bacteria in a lab setting. “It’s amazing to see how something so small can have such a big impact,” she notes.
The program also helped Ahtzerey overcome personal challenges. She credits her involvement in BioPathat TMC with helping her build confidence and social skills. “Don’t be afraid to ask questions,” she advises fellow students. “You might find that others have the same questions.”
A Growing Need for Talent
The biomanufacturing sector in Houston is booming, with significant growth projected in the coming years. Employment in this field is expected to grow by 5% by 2032, and the Texas Medical Center, a leading hub for clinical trials and life sciences research, is at the forefront of this expansion. Despite this, there remains a significant gap in the local workforce.
BioPath at TMC is addressing this need by providing high school students with exposure to the field, hands-on learning opportunities, and career readiness support. This initiative is not only preparing students for future careers but also contributing to Houston’s development as a leader in the life sciences.
Get Involved
If you’re a teacher or parent interested in bringing BioPath at TMC to your school, we encourage you to get involved. By participating in this program, you’ll help pave the way for students to explore exciting careers in biomanufacturing and contribute to the growth of Houston’s life sciences sector.
Together, we can shape the future of our community and empower the next generation of life science enthusiasts.