BIO C OM INSTITUT E Up d a t e
Veterans and Women: Key Populations in our Evolving Industry by Kristie Grover, Executive Director, BIOCOM Institute The life sciences are one of the fastest growing sectors in the California e c o n o m y. However, as t o d a y ’ s bioscience industry grows, veterans and women are often underrepresented. The BIOCOM Institute recognizes that these groups represent a promising talent pool to build the life science work force. With this in mind, the Institute and technology partner ZBglobal are collaborating to help increase their numbers in the industry. Early on, the BIOCOM Institute and ZBglobal pledged to provide free BioCollaborative tuitions for veterans and active duty military. I witnessed firsthand how hard work and good training can lead to a successful career. My father, an Army sergeant, used the GI Bill to earn undergraduate and graduate degrees and begin a long successful career in the life science industry. Starting as an intern, he rose to become a director in pharma, president of a medical device company and a venture capitalist for some of the nation’s largest funds. This is what happens when you combine good people and good education. We want to make similar opportunities available for the men
and women who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Marine Lance Corporal Kevin Blanchard was on patrol in Iraq when an improvised explosive device detonated and he lost his left leg. After participating in the AdvaMed Medical Technology Veterans Program (MVP) Boot Camp for Returning Heroes, Blanchard was encouraged to pursue a career in the life sciences. In particular, he expressed his interest in working in the prosthetics industry, allowing him to help fellow amputees. His passion and transferable skills will make him a great asset. Women face their own unique barriers when trying to succeed in the life science industry. Recently, I attended the Society for Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology Annual Meeting. Strangely, I kept being directed to a ballroom dance competition rather than the life science event. While I can see the humor in the situation, this type of gender stereotyping is common for women in our industry. Regardless of the situation, we need to find creative ways to encourage and support women in the life sciences. The BIOCOM Institute is partnering with Women in Bio (WIB) to narrow this gender gap by working together to help women enter and thrive in this sector. Specifically, The BIOCOM Institute and WIB actively support entrepreneurship and career
growth for women in the biosciences. Veterans need help transitioning from military to civilian life. Women need female role models to encourage them to overcome gender bias and move up the corporate ladder. The Institute and ZB are partnering with the community to help find mentors and establish corporate programs that support veterans and women. Together, we can and will make a difference. If you are interested in a program to hire veterans, support professional development for women in the life sciences or would like to mentor an individual, please contact Ashley Reynolds areynolds@biocom.org or 858-455-0300 x129.
BIOCOM LifeLines Fall 2012
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