CREST

The Coalition Responsible for Equitable Skills Training (CREST) team offers transformative adult pivot experiential learning programs to quickly and seamlessly enter the Biotechnology and Life Sciences workforce. This training equips participants with theoretical and hands-on experience to meet the needs of professional competencies in emerging biomanufacturing technologies. CREST works with industry and community partners to customize curricula to company-specific needs and to recruit local talent to meet and attract the increasing workforce demand to fulfill those industry roles.

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Participants in this program will receive $20 an hour for the duration of the bootcamp. Applications for this bootcamp as well as employer interest applications will open in January 2025. 

Program Information

  • Application

    Please check back for Spring 2025 cohort dates and application.

  • About

    The CREST program is investing in the professional development of the community to support the growth and success of the biotech industry in Middle Tennessee. 

    Through this training, participants will be following a licensed Biotechnology Aptitude and Competency Exam (BACE) framework in order to achieve bioscience industry-trusted, nationally recognized certification.

  • Learn More

    To inquire about this program, email Gisele Calderon at gisele.a.calderon@vanderbilt.edu

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News Highlight

CREST initiative gets grant to energize workforce development, economic growth through regional cross-sector collaborations

The National Science Foundation has awarded a $1 million grant to an initiative born of the Wond’ry, Vanderbilt’s Innovation Center, the Center for Technology Transfer and Commercialization and key regional stakeholders. The groundbreaking CREST (Coalition Responsible for Equitable Skills Training) initiative is designed to connect industry, academic and community partners to craft workforce development programs that stimulate economic progress for all. 

Program Support

Funding for this paid training bootcamp is provided by the National Science Foundation (NSF) Award 2322341.