EPIC-IDEA: Expanded Pathways in Cell-Based Manufacturing to Increase Diversity, Equity, and Advancement
Grant Award Details
Grant Number:
EDUC8-20328
Investigator(s):
Award Value:
$6,552,640
Status:
Pre-Active
Grant Application Details
Application Title:
EPIC-IDEA: Expanded Pathways in Cell-Based Manufacturing to Increase Diversity, Equity, and Advancement
Public Abstract:
Solano Community College proposes the EPIC-IDEA Dual Path Training Program, an innovative education and workforce initiative designed to prepare students for careers in regenerative medicine. Regenerative medicine is a rapidly growing field focused on developing treatments for diseases such as cancer, blood disorders, and degenerative conditions. This program builds on the college’s successful biotechnology training programs and expands opportunities for students to gain the skills, experience, and support needed to enter high-demand careers in the life sciences.
EPIC-IDEA creates a clear and accessible pathway for students by combining two training programs: Bridges, which provides hands-on training and extended internships for early college students, and COMPASS, which supports advanced students completing a Bachelor of Science in Biomanufacturing. Students can begin with entry-level training and progress into more advanced coursework, research experiences, and internships, allowing them to build skills step-by-step and transition successfully into the workforce or graduate school.
Participants in the program will receive training in areas such as stem cell science, gene therapy, and biomanufacturing, along with hands-on laboratory experience in real-world settings. Students will also benefit from mentorship, career guidance, and professional development opportunities. In addition, the program includes community outreach and patient engagement activities, helping students understand how scientific research directly impacts people’s lives.
The program prioritizes recruiting students from diverse and underserved backgrounds, including those who may not have previously considered careers in science. By expanding access to education and training, EPIC-IDEA helps create new opportunities for students while strengthening California’s workforce in biotechnology and regenerative medicine.
Through strong partnerships with universities, hospitals, and biotechnology companies, Solano Community College will provide students with meaningful, career-connected experiences. Ultimately, this program will help develop a skilled and diverse workforce, support innovation in healthcare, and contribute to improving the lives of patients across California.
EPIC-IDEA creates a clear and accessible pathway for students by combining two training programs: Bridges, which provides hands-on training and extended internships for early college students, and COMPASS, which supports advanced students completing a Bachelor of Science in Biomanufacturing. Students can begin with entry-level training and progress into more advanced coursework, research experiences, and internships, allowing them to build skills step-by-step and transition successfully into the workforce or graduate school.
Participants in the program will receive training in areas such as stem cell science, gene therapy, and biomanufacturing, along with hands-on laboratory experience in real-world settings. Students will also benefit from mentorship, career guidance, and professional development opportunities. In addition, the program includes community outreach and patient engagement activities, helping students understand how scientific research directly impacts people’s lives.
The program prioritizes recruiting students from diverse and underserved backgrounds, including those who may not have previously considered careers in science. By expanding access to education and training, EPIC-IDEA helps create new opportunities for students while strengthening California’s workforce in biotechnology and regenerative medicine.
Through strong partnerships with universities, hospitals, and biotechnology companies, Solano Community College will provide students with meaningful, career-connected experiences. Ultimately, this program will help develop a skilled and diverse workforce, support innovation in healthcare, and contribute to improving the lives of patients across California.
Statement of Benefit to California:
The EPIC-IDEA Dual Path Training Program at Solano Community College will provide significant and measurable benefits to the State of California by strengthening the regenerative medicine workforce, expanding equitable access to high-wage careers, and supporting innovation in biotechnology and healthcare. By integrating education, hands-on training, and structured career pathways, the program advances California’s leadership in the life sciences while addressing critical workforce and health equity needs.
California’s biotechnology and regenerative medicine sectors continue to expand rapidly, creating urgent demand for a highly skilled and adaptable workforce. EPIC-IDEA addresses this need by preparing students with industry-aligned skills in stem cell biology, gene therapy, and biomanufacturing, as well as training in regulatory science, data management, and quality systems. Through structured internships and partnerships with leading academic institutions and regional biotechnology companies, trainees gain real-world experience that directly translates into workforce readiness. By producing job-ready graduates, the program strengthens California’s talent pipeline and supports continued economic growth in a critical sector.
A central benefit of EPIC-IDEA is its focus on expanding access for Californians historically underrepresented in STEM. Solano Community College serves a highly diverse population, including first-generation college students and individuals facing economic barriers. Through an outreach plan that prioritizes potential, resilience, and motivation, the program identifies and supports untapped talent that may otherwise be excluded from traditional pathways. This approach promotes equity while ensuring that California’s workforce reflects the diversity necessary for long-term competitiveness.
The program’s Dual Path structure provides a scalable and replicable model for workforce development. By integrating Bridges and COMPASS pathways, students can enter at multiple points and progress from foundational training to advanced education and career placement. As a community college offering a Bachelor of Science in Biomanufacturing, Solano is uniquely positioned to expand access to advanced STEM education.
EPIC-IDEA also contributes to improved health outcomes and public engagement through patient engagement activities and partnerships with organizations such as the National Marrow Donor Program. These efforts increase awareness of regenerative medicine, promote participation in donor initiatives, and help ensure equitable access to emerging therapies across California’s diverse communities.
Finally, the program builds on a proven track record of success. Solano’s COMPASS program has demonstrated near 100% placement of graduates into industry or advanced education. EPIC-IDEA expands this success by increasing capacity and access, producing skilled professionals prepared to contribute to California’s innovation economy and future.