FREDERICK, Md.– BioHub Maryland, an initiative to accelerate life sciences in Maryland for companies and career-seekers, has named Alexandra Haarich Manager of Workforce Development & Partnerships.
Created by the Maryland Tech Council, the largest technology and life sciences trade association in the state, BioHub Maryland upskills residents of all backgrounds for life sciences careers by offering biopharma skills training, career resources, and access to job openings. BioHub Maryland also helps life sciences companies by showcasing career opportunities, training new life sciences talent, and providing resources for raising capital.
As Workforce Development and Partnerships Manager, Haarich will oversee the development of BioHub Maryland’s biopharma skills training programs and partnerships with civic organizations, industry, and academia.
Haarich previously served as a Child Life Specialist for Chesapeake Life Center, University of Maryland Medical Center, and Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, advocating for patients’ needs and rights within the medical system and supporting families through crises. She graduated from Towson University with a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Family Studies.
“Maryland must build a stronger biopharma talent pipeline to remain a leader in life sciences innovation,” said Kelly Schulz, CEO of the Maryland Tech Council. “Alexandra is deeply committed to building the diverse, equitable, and highly-skilled biopharma workforce Maryland needs to maintain and expand its global innovation advantage.”
BioHub Maryland will focus its online and in-person biopharma skills training on the estimated 1.3 million Marylanders who do not have advanced degrees and the 360,000 military veterans in the state. The first cohort of trainees will launch in the fall of 2023.
The most in-demand life sciences careers, such as manufacturing technicians and lab assistants, often require only a high school diploma, GED, or associate’s degree. Life sciences incomes in Maryland are 87% higher than the statewide average for all industries, making it an ideal career choice for Marylanders from disadvantaged backgrounds and military veterans transitioning to new careers.
“I am honored to join BioHub Maryland and help residents of all backgrounds find their future in life sciences,” said Haarich. “You don’t have to be a doctor or scientist to have a successful life sciences career. With BioHub Maryland’s flexible biopharma skills training, Maryland residents will be ready to fight diseases, save lives, and immediately add value to their workplace.”
