Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, a contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) with experience in the development and manufacture of recombinant biopharmaceuticals and viral gene therapies, is giving a $200,000 contribution to the Wake Tech Foundation to establish the Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies Early College Suite. Located on the Wake Technical Community College’s Research Triangle Park (RTP) Campus, the suite will house the Wake Early College of Information and Biotechnologies, a partnership between the Wake County Public School System and Wake Technical Community College to provide high school students with the opportunity to earn dual-enrollment high school/college credits in IT and biotechnology programs.

In August 2022, the Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies Early College Suite will welcome an initial 150 new high school students to the campus. The Early College is expected to have annual enrollments of 75 high school students per grade level (Freshmen – Senior) at full capacity. By partnering with Wake Technical Community College, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies supports the creation and development of learning experiences designed to attract and prepare next-generation talent for the high-growth biopharmaceutical industry.

“This program allows students in our communities to build a strong foundation in biotechnology,” said Christine Vannais, chief operating officer, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, RTP. “We are preparing these students for a meaningful and challenging STEM career in biotech, and we are hopeful that when these promising students finish their studies, they will come join us at Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies.”

Kenneth Bilenberg, site head, Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies, Holly Springs, said, “We are proud to play a part in developing the workforce of tomorrow by providing access to training, resources, and job opportunities. This partnership with Wake Tech Community College is one of the many public-private partnerships we intend to ensure a strong pipeline of talent for the future of biomanufacturing.”  

Currently Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies employs over 650 people at the campus in RTP, and the Holly Springs facility is expected to employ over 725 when completed in 2028.

“We’re extremely grateful for the support of Fujifilm Diosynth Biotechnologies,” said Dr. Scott Ralls, president, Wake Technical Community College. “Giving students an early start into the field of biotechnology, with advanced education and state-of-the-art hands-on training, will help build a skilled workforce for years to come.”