Williams is a senior pharmaceutical associate at Sampson Biologics in Rockville, Maryland. Williams was initially drawn to biotech to help people. Outside work, he enjoys fixing up his house and outdoor activities. Williams started as an apprentice, progressing to a senior role over five and a half years. He credits his Montgomery College and the apprenticeship for his success. Now Williams has financial stability and independence. Williams advises students to explore non-traditional education paths, like apprenticeships, to gain practical experience and avoid college debt.

In this episode you’ll meet Juan, a manufacturing associate and shift coordinator at Novo Nordisk. Juan discusses his journey into the biotechnology industry. He heard about the Bioworks certificate at Johnston Community College (JCC) and despite initial job search challenges, Juan secured a role at Novo Nordisk because of a four-day internship in JCC’s Bio Blend program. Juan highlights the extensive documentation in biotech, the benefits of Novo Nordisk's two-to-three shift schedule, and Novo Nordisk's education reimbursement program. Juan advises aspiring biotech professionals to explore the field's diverse career paths.

JCC Biotech Program: https://www.montgomerycollege.edu/academics/programs/biotechnology/index.html

Careers at Novo Nordisk: https://www.novonordisk.com/careers/find-a-job.html

Stephanie, a lab technician at the NIH, discusses her career path from pre-vet studies to a biotech certificate at Montgomery College. At the NIH, Stepnhanie works with patients from around the world, processing blood and bone marrow for clinical trials. Stephanie highlights the importance of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and being flexible in the workplace. She advises those interested in biotech to pursue their passions and embrace continuous learning, as her experience at NIH has been both challenging and rewarding.

MC Biotech Program: https://www.montgomerycollege.edu/academics/programs/biotechnology/index.html

Careers at the NIH: https://hr.nih.gov/careers/career-fields/student-recent-graduate-careers