BioTalent Canada has launched a new cleanroom certification initiative that aims to bridge skill gaps and enhance workforce readiness in the Canadian biomanufacturing industry.
Further, the new initiative aims to ensure that employers in this field are empowered to assess and recognise skills in the labour market and eliminate mismatches.
BioTalent Canada is a national non-profit organisation that supports the biotechnology sector in Canada by providing labour market intelligence, skills development programs, and career resources. It bridges the gap between talent and the biotech industry.
BioTalent Canada has launched a new cleanroom certification initiative
This project, partly funded by the Government of Canada’s Future Skills Programme, continues BioTalent Canada’s previous work in understanding the value of cleanroom certification for the predominantly small- and medium-sized organisations that make up Canadian biomanufacturing.
President and CEO of BioTalent Canada, Rob Henderson, said: "Ensuring Canada is prepared for future pandemics has created renewed energy in building capacity in Canadian biomanufacturing. But, with over 16,000 biomanufacturing professionals needed by 2029 to meet the bio-economy’s talent demands, employers must identify and train the necessary skills now."
Activities for this project include:
- Comprehensive research into the development of a practical assessment for certification
- Interviews and a focus group of biomanufacturing employers across Canada
- Consultations with subject matter experts in certification design and assessment
The success of this project will help employers build a pipeline of qualified talent with the industry-validated cleanroom competencies needed to sustain a vital sector facing increased demands.
By investing in industry-recognised training, we are taking steps forward to build a skilled workforce that drives the future of biomanufacturing in Canada
"While the 2021 budget announcement of $2.2 bn (CAD) to implement a biomanufacturing and life sciences strategy will help establish Canada as a global leader in the discovery and production of life-saving medicines. Without qualified talent to fill in-demand roles, these efforts may prove fruitless," Henderson added.
Executive Director of the Future Skills Centre, Noel Baldwin, said: "By investing in industry-recognised training, we are taking steps forward to build a skilled workforce that drives the future of biomanufacturing in Canada. Preparing particularly small- and medium-sized businesses with the tools to cultivate the right skills will help power the innovation and growth we need."
