Events
Apprenticeship Graduates Strengthen Region's Biopharmaceutical Workforce
RALEIGH, N.C. (March 24, 2026) – Wake Tech is helping shape the future of biomanufacturing talent, recognizing the first graduates of its groundbreaking BioMechatronics Apprenticeship program during a ceremony at the RTP Campus.
Tuesday's event marked the culmination of an eight‑month, industry‑designed training initiative launched last year in partnership with life sciences leaders CSL Seqirus, FUJIFILM Biotechnologies and Eli Lilly and Company to support the region's rapidly growing biopharmaceutical manufacturing sector. The program was also developed with support from the North Carolina Life Sciences Apprenticeship Consortium.
Nine apprentices completed the rigorous program, which combines advanced instruction in mechanical, electrical and automation systems, with hands‑on experience in biomanufacturing environments to prepare them for high‑demand careers at their facilities.
Graduates:
CSL Seqirus
- Connor Bowersox
- Cody Mercer
FUJIFILM Biotechnologies
- Sean Burgher
- Daniel Preheim
Eli Lilly
- Emily Davis
- Brendon Edgerton
- Lady Estefania Calderon Diaz
- Judah Naiman
- Corey Winston
The apprentices took accelerated non-degree courses at Wake Tech's Beltline Education Center to equip them to be skilled maintenance technicians in biopharmaceutical facilities. They strengthened their knowledge in mechanical and electrical engineering, motor controls, pneumatics and programmable logic controllers (PLCs) used for industrial automation to prepare them to maintain and repair smart pharmaceutical and biotechnology manufacturing equipment and ensure it operates safely.
The apprentices earned Smart Automation Certification Alliance industry certifications in four areas: electrical systems, pneumatic systems, PLCs and mechanical power systems. They also received additional industry‑aligned training in smart manufacturing, troubleshooting, aseptic processing, current Good Manufacturing Practices, cleanroom gowning and other specialized skills essential to biomanufacturing operations.
The inaugural cohort began its journey last July. Through the apprenticeship model, participants earned a salary from Day One while gaining the technical skills and hands‑on experience needed to advance into full‑time roles with their sponsoring employers. Graduates now transition to full-time, on‑the‑job training.
Wake Tech President Dr. Scott Ralls praised the apprentices and industry partners for their commitment to strengthening North Carolina's life sciences workforce.
"Thank you to everyone who made today possible, especially the apprentices," said Dr. Ralls. "Your success reflects the strength of our partnerships with CSL Seqirus, FUJIFILM and Eli Lilly and the incredible potential of talent right here in our region."
Preheim said the program has been an exciting and valuable step in his career.
"The BioMechatronics Apprenticeship program at Wake Tech has been a great opportunity," he said. "I look forward to continuing my work at FUJIFILM. As a utility mechanic, I'm the person who steps in when something needs fixing, and I feel fully prepared to do great work."
This type of training will also take place in Wendell later this year, when Wake Tech opens its state-of-the-art Advanced Technology Center at the college's Eastern Wake Campus.
