BioCatalyst Program

The BioCatalyst Program was created in 2014 to prepare qualified, mid-career candidates to earn sector-specific life science industry certificates. Thanks to new funding, we are able to offer it again to Oregonians seeking to transition into high-demand roles.

BioCatalyst offers three industry-recognized certificate options designed to prepare you for high-demand roles in Oregon’s life science sector. Each program combines classroom learning and direct exposure to employers.

The program provides the opportunity to participate at no cost for those accepted thanks to funding from the Future Ready Oregon Workforce Ready Grant, Round Two: Innovation in Workforce Programs, from the Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC).

Program Qualifications

To qualify, you must be located in Oregon and unemployed or underemployed. You must have held a previous job (no recent graduates) and be available for half-day online training sessions in our virtual classroom. The only formal education required is a high school degree or G.E.D., though some background or experience in the life science, advanced manufacturing, or tangential industries would be helpful.

Benefits for Employers

• Upskilling Oregonians: Courses target un- and under-employed professionals, giving them industry-recognized training that makes them competitive for life science careers.
• Employer-driven design: Modules were built and vetted by local companies, ensuring immediate relevance to workforce needs.
• Multiplier effect: Hiring upskilled professionals not only fills critical roles but also stimulates additional growth and hiring as companies expand projects and product development.
• Building Oregon’s talent pipeline: Historically, these specialized professionals were recruited from out of state. With BioCatalyst, Oregon employers gain access to a larger, locally trained workforce.