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CTE Month: Student turns to bioscience after career in fine arts and animation

Story by Misty Bouse

February is national Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month where 51���� and other institutions spotlight their important career & technical education programs.

One such program is 51����’s Bioscience Technology Program at the Rock Creek Campus in Washington County. Graduates often work in the manufacturing of biopharmaceuticals and medical devices. Opportunities are abundant in analytical labs or in biomedical research. Some graduates will find their way into other areas like quality control or sales, too.

51���� offers three degree options — one-year certification in either bioscience technician or advanced bioscience technologist in addition to an associate degree in bioscience technology. According to the Oregon Employment Department, the Portland-area industry average for bioscience technicians is around $70,000 annually.

Current student Annie Chung decided to build a new bioscience career from one in fine arts and animation.

“I love how you can step right in and get hands-on with materials and equipment,” she said. “Art and bioscience are very different. Yet, also similar with the handwork. But the calculations and math are challenging. They’re not something I’ve done before. But the instructors are really helpful in guiding you.“

Chung is not sure what she ultimately wants to do within her new field of study. But she knows whatever she does, she’ll be supported by the program.

“I’m a first-year student and am keeping those doors open,” she said. “I appreciate that faculty really support you here. I love that we get to explore biotech options like cancer research, manufacturing and quality control. We get our hands into everything.”

For more information, visit 51����’s Bioscience Technology Program website.