Recommendations for workforce development in regenerative medicine biomanufacturing.

Area of Science:

• Regenerative Medicine
• Biotechnology
• Workforce Development

Background:

• The National Science Board recommended developing a skilled technical workforce (STW) in science and engineering.
• The RegenMed Development Organization (ReMDO) assessed knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) for regenerative medicine (RM) biomanufacturing.
• STW definitions were expanded to include baccalaureate-prepared technicians.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline KSAs for RM biomanufacturing.
• To quantify the existing skills gap in the RM biomanufacturing sector.
• To provide recommendations for addressing the identified skills gap.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a survey to assess KSAs for RM biomanufacturing.
• Defined three levels of preparation: basic employability, core bioscience, and specialized RM biomanufacturing skills.
• Identified 15 specialized skill sets for RM and related biotechnology sectors.

Main Results:

• Established foundational skills (employability and bioscience) and 15 specialized RM biomanufacturing KSAs.
• Quantified the gap between employer-required skills and employee capabilities.
• Highlighted the need for targeted training and development in RM biomanufacturing.

Conclusions:

• Defined a comprehensive set of KSAs for entry-level RM biomanufacturing roles.
• Emphasized the critical need to bridge the skills gap for a robust STW.
• Recommended strategic applications of findings to enhance RM biomanufacturing workforce preparedness.