Publication Spotlight: Bridging the Gap: Identification of Critical Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) to Fill Entry-level Bioprocess Technician Positions using the BILT Model

The field of bioprocess manufacturing is growing rapidly, and there simply aren't enough skilled technicians to fill entry-level positions. Community colleges are well-positioned to help students be ready for these positions, but it is crucially important the skills taught fit the needs of the evolving industry. Central Carolina Community College's faculty and staff used the Business & Industry Leadership Team (BILT) model to help discern what industry employers need from their newly hired technicians, and then implemented curriculum changes to ensure that the high priority knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) are part of the CCCC program. Their efforts were published in the Journal of Advanced Technological Education (J ATE) Volume 3, Issue 1: Bridging the Gap: Identification of Critical Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) to Fill Entry-level Bioprocess Technician Positions using the BILT Model

The BILT model, created by Dr. Ann Beheler from the National Science Foundation (NSF) Center of Excellence in Convergence Technology at Collin College, can be applied to any technical program. It goes beyond the traditional advisory board in that the meetings are generally more frequent (quarterly) thus allowing for greater engagement by industry. KSAs are reviewed and prioritized annually with the goal of establishing the needs of employers in the new-term future (1-3 years).  After priorities were established, the CCCC faculty compare the KSAs to their existing curricula and update as needed, with feedback to the industry leaders. This increased involvement can also pave the way for expanded engagement with the BILT members often hosting internships, or mock interviews as a way to provide additional job-readiness support for students.

Importantly, the prioritization process both highlights KSAs that needed to be added or emphasized as well as those that could be de-emphasized or dropped due to changing industry needs. CCCC's implementation of this model has led to increased alignment with industry needs as well as building a path for industry to be more aware of the diverse workforce that is educated through the community college system.  Along with the increased awareness through the BILT implementation, CCCC is working to add credentialing exams such as the Biotechnician Assistant Credentialing Exam (BACE) and workforce skills assessment through the Bioscience Core Skills Institute (BCSI) in order to graduate students with standardized credentials that are trusted by the bioscience industry.

The J ATE publication gives details of CCCC's implementation of the BILT model and is a valuable source for other programs that want to have greater alignment with industry.  Graduating a "right-skilled" workforce is imperative, and the BILT model can help.