BVT welcomes its first biotechnology class

As the biotech industry in Massachusetts continues to grow, so does the need for talented employees.

The Blackstone Valley Vocational Regional School District officially commemorated the opening of its Biotechnology program with a ribbon cutting ceremony last month.

“It’s a pretty special day to have a ceremony and open a new shop. It doesn’t happen every day,” Principal Anthony Steele said. “It’s a complex process to start a Chapter 74-approved vocational-technical education program, and it takes a village to bring this all together. It’s an honor to welcome our first incoming Biotechnology class. Forever in our school history, these 16 students will hold this title.”

The renovation was primarily an in-house project recognizing the contributions and hard work of the Facilities team, who helped transform and wire the vocational space at a cost-savings for the district with the help of students.

“This is an incredibly joyous day to see the expansion of new opportunities, Superintendent Dr. Michael Fitzpatrick said.” Frankly, each of our 19 vocational programs upgrade every year and changes the skills sets we call competencies. So, in reality, we’re opening new programs, curriculum, training, and expertise in every program every year, and the same is true for our academic programs. While we are eager to expand new programs, we have to do so in moderation while working with our legislators to compliment available dollars and reasonably pursue grants.”

Vocational Director Dr. Matthew Connors said from thought to finish, the entire process took two years. He discussed the new technology and equipment in the lab, the future job outlook four years from now available to its students, and thanked everyone who helped make the concept of this shop a reality.

“If ever there was a time to build a Biotechnology facility, it was during the height of the global pandemic where students are interested and have a desire to make a difference,” Connors said. “There is a community need, a student desire, and an apropos time if you will, and we’ve brought that all together, which is exciting.” To determine which student would help cut the ribbon, Vocational Director Michele Denise pulled a name. Isabelle Kling said, “I was surprised to hear my name called. It was surreal. Since elementary school, I had wanted to go to BVT, but I never thought I would be cutting the ribbon of a new shop.”

The ceremony continued with guest speaker, state Sen. Michael Moore. “The beauty of vocational schools is how they’ve evolved with the economy,” said Moore. “We have so much need for skilled laborers. This curriculum opens up so many doors – from the businesses that will hopefully be employing you – to the students taking up these skills – there will be many opportunities to advance yourself in the Biotech sector. This program is a great achievement for the school.”

The ceremony concluded with Principal Steele, Advisory Member Kristin Gothier, Instructor Susan Piraino, Vocational Director Dr. Connors, Superintendent Dr. Fitzpatrick, and Biotechnology freshman Isabelle Kling cutting a purple ribbon.

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