Executive Director Addresses AURP

Executive Director Addresses Association of University Research Parks

During these challenging times, it’s important to continue to spread the word about the great work BTI is doing, how BTI impacts lives and makes a difference in our community and in the world.

During the shutdown, BTI Executive Director Leslie Prewitt has been attending conferences and meetings virtually, including the opportunity to address The Association of University Research Parks (AURP) at its annual Health Caucus on September 15, 2020. The theme of the meeting was “America’s Bio and Pharma Manufacturing Renaissance: Where Do We Go from Here?”

Ms. Prewitt addressed the group during a session on “Community Engagement: Bio Manufacturing Training,” in which she shared details of BTI’s unique and innovative approach. In particular, she spoke about creative ways of developing workforce talent, and how BTI is a disruptor in an industry which typically requires much more academic training for entry. Ms. Prewitt shared success stories of BTI graduates and how BTI training literally changes lives.

Ms. Prewitt was joined by Arthur Edge, III, Associate Director, Global Technical Operations, AstraZeneca, who discussed community colleges and programs funded through the National Institute of Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL).

The audience comprised about 50 biomanufacturing professionals, real estate agents and investors. Afterwards, Ms. Prewitt received the following heartfelt feedback from the organizer,

“Leslie, your encouraging stories of empowerment and lives changed through your program are heart lifting in these ongoing troubling days, which started long before COVID-19 showed up. Bravo to you and the work you do!”