The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) revealed their endorsement of the Biofabrication Technician Registered Apprenticeship Program. Launched in collaboration with BioFabUSA, this initiative is tailored to nurture the U.S. biofabrication sector, providing comprehensive training to the next generation of professionals in this burgeoning field.
According to a press release issued by the United States Department of Defense on October 10, biofabrication is defined as the process of creating unique equipment through the utilization of biological raw materials such as living cells and biomaterials. The United States Department of Defense (DoD) is aware of the potential game-changing impact that this technology could have and is keen to put it into action, particularly in challenging supply chain conditions.
In accordance with the press release, BioFabUSA is a trailblazer in this industry. The institute combines advanced cell and tissue culture techniques with cutting-edge biofabrication, robotics, and analytical technology. One of their most noteworthy accomplishments is the development of a method for creating a "scaffold" out of a pig heart that may afterwards be utilized for the cultivation of human heart cells.
According to a statement released by the Department of Defense, the apprenticeship program is primarily intended for former members of the military and offers two separate entry points for potential participants. In the Registered Apprenticeship Program, the training period lasts for a total of two months, and then the real work period lasts for a total of twelve months. Those who successfully finish the program will be eligible to receive a Biofabrication Certificate in addition to other qualifications. Those who aren't selected to participate in the main program have the opportunity to participate in the Embedded Certificate Program, which will still allow them to get significant experience and earn a certificate in biofabrication.
According to the statement that was included in the press release, DOD Manufacturing Technology Program Director Tracy Frost was quoted as saying, "Apprenticeship is one of the most effective means of bringing workers into specialized fields and BioFab's program will train the workforce needed to support U.S. leadership in the biofabrication industrial base."
