WSSU seeking students for the third cohort of free biomanufacturing training program
Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) is seeking North Carolina residents over the age of 18 to take part in the third cohort of its innovative biomanufacturing training program, designed to prepare North Carolina residents for high-paying jobs in the state’s growing life sciences sector.
The program, offered through a partnership with the NC Biotechnology Center, is part of the Accelerate NC Life Sciences Manufacturing Coalition and funded by a $25 million grant from the Build Back Better initiative. WSSU was selected as one of six new bioprocessing training hubs across the state.
The free, two-week training provides hands-on instruction and certifications in biomanufacturing, helping participants transition into entry-level positions in the biopharmaceutical industry.
The third cohort begins Nov. 10 and runs through Nov. 21, 2025, at WSSU’s W.B. Atkinson Science Building, where a classroom has been transformed into a biomanufacturing training lab.
The initiative aims to create workforce development opportunities for diverse and underserved communities while meeting the growing demand for skilled employees in life sciences manufacturing.
Dr. Mesia Steed, chair of the Department of Biological Sciences and co-director of the program, said the training provides an accessible entry point into a field that offers stability and strong wages.
“Through this initiative, we are helping more people develop the expertise required to thrive in the state’s growing life sciences sector,” Steed said.
This free course allows students to earn certifications in just a few weeks while receiving instruction, support, and guidance from experienced professionals. Participants gain hands-on experience, open doors to multiple career paths, and join a rapidly growing field that offers strong job security and opportunities for professional advancement.
The training is open to North Carolina residents age 18 or older with a high school diploma or GED. Participants must complete five online modules before the in-person sessions, which run Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Graduates earn multiple certifications, including an advanced certificate in biopharmaceutical manufacturing, and may qualify for positions paying up to $95,000 per year.
Applications for Cohort 3 are due Friday, Oct. 24, 2025. The program will continue with additional cohorts in spring 2026.
Other bioprocessing hubs in the Accelerate NC coalition are located at Elizabeth City State University, Fayetteville State University, Livingstone College, North Carolina Central University, Saint Augustine’s University and the University of North Carolina at Pembroke.
For more information or to apply, visit the WSSU Biomanufacturing Training Program page.
