Partnerships
Wake Tech Partners on Amgen Expansion Project
College to Train Biotech Workforce
RALEIGH, N.C. (December 5, 2024) – Wake Tech will train the workforce for Amgen as the biotech company plans a major expansion in Wake County.
Amgen announced Thursday that it plans to invest $1 billion to expand its manufacturing facility in Holly Springs. Wake Tech's partnership was among several incentives that led to Amgen's decision to expand here.
"Wake Tech has been a true long-term partner to help us build our workforce of tomorrow," said Paul Lewus, Amgen North Carolina site head. "We have worked closely with Wake Tech to build a best-in-class apprenticeship program."
Amgen's customized training program at Wake Tech will launch in January. A cohort of future employees will sign on as apprentices with Amgen, taking classes and getting hands-on instruction at Wake Tech's Southern Wake Campus for six months before transitioning to full-time, on-the-job training at Amgen. The apprentices will be paid a salary starting on Day One of the program.
"This is the most comprehensive 'learn-and-earn' training model I have ever seen," said Dr. Scott Ralls, Wake Tech president. "It's a testament to Amgen's commitment to our region."
Amgen's partnership with Wake Tech dates back three years, with the company utilizing office space and other resources at the college as it ramped up operations in Holly Springs. Amgen also sponsors a "co-laboratory" at Wake Tech's RTP Campus in Morrisville, a unique space where technologists and industry professionals collaborate on ideas, new technology and industry trends.
"Amgen has quickly emerged as one of Wake Tech's best partners," said Ralls.
Amgen's expansion will be adjacent to its existing facility on the northwest side of Holly Springs, south of U.S. Highway 1. This project brings the total site investment to more than $1.5 billion, with employment expected to reaching 725 by 2032. It will enable Amgen to increase capacity and meet current and projected demand for life-saving medications across the globe.
Wake Tech's apprenticeship program is supported by Wake County's WakeWorks® initiative. To learn more, visit apprenticeship.waketech.edu.
