The experience quotient – How to ensure new graduates are adequately prepared to work in Canada’s bio-economy

Every year, thousands of talented graduates emerge from post-secondary programs that are related directly to the bio-economy—in disciplines such as chemistry, biology, agriculture and human health. Too often, however, these new grads lack the practical skills and professional maturity to step straight into jobs with Canadian biotechnology companies.

Some 75 percent of Canada’s biotechnology firms are small or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Few have the time or resources to provide extensive or ongoing training and development. Yet they need skilled people to keep pace with growth and seize upon emerging opportunities. And the fact is the workplace is the best environment for skills development.