BioWork is a 136-hour introductory course bringing together the basics of manufacturing technology and the fundamentals of science — two essentials for competent, entry-level technicians in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and chemical manufacturing.

Certified completers enter the workforce ready to learn company operations and tasks. Students are prepared to: 

• Learn the importance of safety and safety awareness; 
• Follow chemical safety guidelines;
• Use and convert in the metric system.                        
• Assist with fermentation and downstream processing;
• Calibrate and use basic equipment;
• Use common pumps and valves;
• Conduct industrial measurements;
• Prepare growth media and grow cells;
• Comply with cGMP and FDA regulations of pharmaceutical manufacturing;
• Learn the foundations of various quality systems;
• Follow an SOP; 
• Complete a batch record properl;. 
• Read and understand MSDS and NFPA;
• Identify process equipment;
• Understand the principles of working in cleanrooms and how to prevent contamination;
• Demonstrate proper aseptic techniques;
• Describe the basic separation methods used in pharmaceutical manufacturing;
• Explain basic feedback control; and
• Read process diagrams and P&IDs

The students complete the program with a safety mindset. They understand that a quality product depends on the strict attention process technicians give to standards and procedures for every task.

BioWork offers students many opportunities to develop and practice effective communication, teamwork, and problem solving for an entry-level position in biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and chemical manufacturing. Additionally, this course will cover all aspects of the job search in the Biotechnology arena, including a job market overview, job search tools and strategies, resume preparation, and interviewing practice, teamwork, time management, and problem solving are also incorporated in the course.

Students complete an exam after each unit.

The BioWork Hybrid class covers the same content as the traditional class. Hybrid classes are a combination of online and classroom instruction.  We like to think of a hybrid class as very similar to an online class, but with face-to-face support  Students and teacher work online via the Internet, but they also meet part of the time -- usually one day a week -- in the lab and to complete the unit test.

This offering of the BioWork course is designed for task-oriented, self-motivated, organized students with excellent reading skills. Students enrolled in this hybrid course complete the classroom portion online and attend class one day a week for the laboratory portion.

1. Must be 18 years of age or older;
2. Must have a high school diploma or GED;
3. Demonstrate appropriate reading level (COMPASS 54 or ASSET 35) and math level (COMPASS 27 or ASSET 36). Placement tests are offered by the DTCC Placement Testing Center; OR
4. Provide a copy of a transcript of any completed college degree (two-year or above).

The BioWork registration fee  is $154 to include registration, textbook, and supplies.

Yes, the Process Technician State Certification examination is available to individuals who have completed successfully the BioWork process technician training program. Durham Technical Community College offers the certification exam twice a year.

Earnings vary based on skill and experience, but the average salary is $13-$ 15 per hour. Job titles include:

• Bioprocess Manufacturing Technician Aseptic Manufacturing Technician
• Manufacturing Preparation Technician
• Formulation and Fill Technician
• Packaging Technician               
• Process Technician
• Manufacturing Associate
• Chemical Equipment Operator
• Chemical Plant and System Operator