Apprenticeship Framework for Pilot-Scale Bioindustrial Manufacturing Operator Training

Members: Manus, University of Georgia

Project dates: 2026 – present

Manus and The University of Georgia (UGA) are collaborating to develop an apprenticeship training program for biomanufacturing operators in a pilot plant environment. This work will result in trained apprentices and a blueprint to translate the apprenticeship program to other facilities across the U.S. This will create a robust mechanism for pipeline development of a domestic biomanufacturing operator workforce. 

Members will be able to access a clear, replicable blueprint and transferable curriculum for an operator apprenticeship program that can be implemented at other bioindustrial manufacturing sites across the U.S. 

Developing a robust biomanufacturing operator workforce is paramount to the U.S. bioeconomy. As more biomanufacturing technologies are reaching scale-up and commercial manufacturing, it is necessary to properly prepare for the increased demand for a talented operator workforce to support this scale of manufacturing. This work will create an apprenticeship program that can be replicated across the U.S. to build this workforce in multiple regions and re-shore manufacturing jobs to the U.S. 

Funding source: U.S. Department of Defense