A Contract Research Organization as a Model for Engaged Learning in STEM

Abstract: This conference paper is authored by Craig Caldwell, Salt Lake Community College and is included in the 2013 ASQ Advancing the STEM Agenda Conference proceedings.

The Biotechnology Program at Salt Lake Community College operates a technician training program that is based on a contract research organization. The program, called InnovaBio, operates alongside of the regular academic program to provide training opportunities to biotechnology interns while at the same time offering research services to local bioscience companies. InnovaBio interns are drawn from partnering high school biotechnology programs as well as Salt Lake Community College programs. The value of their internship experience is the opportunity to work on challenging, credible, research projects that add value to their training as well as the local economy. InnovaBio research is conducted at the Salt Lake Community College Biotechnology Program labs under the guidance of professional research scientists.

Keywords: STEM - Conference Proceedings - Science - Training