Nvolve Partners with NOVA’s Biotech Program to Support Student Success, Workforce

Nvolve, Inc. has entered into a strategic partnership with NOVA’s Biotechnology Leadership in Education (NOBLE) Project. This partnership is designed to provide students from underrepresented and non-traditional backgrounds with the essential skills required for successful entry-level positions in the biotechnology sector.

NOBLE Project:

• Housed at NOVA’s Manassas Campus and supported by a grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) (award number 2300849)
• Focused on meeting the needs of the regional biotechnology and life sciences industries
• Seeks to increase student recruitment, retention and graduation from underserved populations, including women, military veterans and adult learners

The project is structured to focus on the recruitment of women and minorities in STEM fields and aligns perfectly with Nvolve’s mission to provide career-focused training and mentorship, particularly to underrepresented groups in STEM.

“As part of our efforts to bolster student recruitment, retention and success, NOVA’s Biotechnology Program and specifically the NOBLE Project are excited to partner with Nvolve, which has a proven track record of success with their many student scholars,” said David Fernandez, PhD, professor of biology and principal investigator of The NOBLE Project at NOVA.

“They offer a unique approach to curriculum development, professional skills training and mentorship. By augmenting our ability to mentor, support and train our students for success in the biotech industry, we look forward to this partnership helping us achieve our goals and provide the best experience for our students,” said Fernandez.

Nvolve:

• Nvolve’s unique and proven career preparedness methodology has been highly successful in preparing college students with the essential competencies needed to secure and excel in today’s rapidly changing STEM landscape.
• It emphasizes experiential learning, real-world project experience and the development of critical skills such as business communication, critical thinking, problem-solving techniques, teamwork, leadership, negotiating and adaptability.
• Nvolve’s approach has consistently demonstrated results in guiding college students, particularly those from underserved backgrounds, into rewarding STEM careers.
• Nvolve will provide training and mentorship to guide students through their academic journey and into the workforce.

Through its partnership with Nvolve, NOVA will enhance mentorship opportunities, research experiences and internship programs to support student retention and career readiness.

“We are honored to collaborate with NOVA and contribute to this vital initiative,” said Faye O’Brien, president of Nvolve, Inc. “Our proven methodology equips students with the tools they need to navigate the dynamic STEM landscape and thrive in the biotechnology industry. By working together, we aim to provide biotechnology students with the practical skills and mentorship needed to meet the workforce demands of the biotechnology and life sciences industries.”

Why this matters: The NOBLE Project, funded by NSF’s Advanced Technological Education program, focuses on preparing technicians for advanced technology fields that are crucial to the nation’s economy.

Submitted by:
Kathy Parkinson, PIO, KParkinson@nvcc.edu