Building Tomorrow's Biomanufacturing Workforce: A Dual Framework for Internal Development and External Partnerships: Poster Presented at PDA Week 2026.

Abstract

Developing a skilled workforce pipeline is crucial to scaling operations and ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety. To address this challenge, we propose a dual framework that incorporates both internal employee training to maximize personnel resources, as well as external outreach and workforce development programs.Our Spokane manufacturing site undertook a major workforce transformation by adopting a shared resource model and cross-training existing team members to perform multiple roles. This initiative enabled continuous 24-hour operations, improved flexibility, and allowed for more efficient deployment of technicians across production lines in preparation to scale operations.In addition to internal development, we collaborate with local academic institutions and economic development organizations to drive interest in biomanufacturing careers. Most notability, our investment in future talent through a partnership with the local community college to create a biotech manufacturing certification course prepares potential workforce members with the foundational skills needed to succeed in the growing pharma manufacturing industry.