Columbia’s RISE Program Bridges Gap Between STEM Education and Workforce Opportunities for International Students

Columbia, South Carolina: A New Pathway for Future Scientists

In a vibrant move towards shaping the future of STEM education, Ritedose Corp. has announced a fantastic partnership with Benedict College and a workforce development company called inSpring. The goal? To create an international workforce education pipeline aimed at preparing exceptional STEM students for the workforce. This exciting program, known as RISE, opens doors for international students and creates tangible opportunities in the local job market.

Introducing RISE: Ritedose International Student Engagement

The RISE initiative is specifically designed to address the pressing need for skilled workers in laboratory positions at Ritedose. Located in Columbia, Ritedose is esteemed as the largest Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) in the United States, specializing in sterile blow-fill-seal production for ophthalmic and respiratory markets. With their sights set on developing talent, RISE is a crucial step forward for the company and its future employees.

By teaming up with inSpring and Benedict College, Ritedose aims to cultivate a workforce that is equipped with the necessary skills and experience to thrive in the laboratory environment. Students enrolled in this program will have access to internships that not only provide hands-on experience but also open doors to full-time job opportunities within Ritedose.

A Trailblazer’s Success

One such success story emerging from this collaboration is Jane Kiborus, the first RISE program hire at Ritedose. A recent graduate from Benedict College, Jane hails from Kenya and is now making strides in Ritedose’s microbiology laboratory, working closely with Cassie Robinson, the director of stability and laboratory assurance.

Jane shares, “The RISE program has helped me realize that I can use science to make an impact in the world.” Her journey from academia to the corporate world has been transformative, allowing her to apply the skills gained at Benedict College to make valued contributions in her new role.

Bridging Academia to Industry

The RISE program isn’t just about filling positions; it’s about bridging the gap between education and industry. The collaboration between Ritedose, inSpring, and Benedict College aims to provide a robust support system for international students, particularly in their transition to full-time employment. As Janisha Thomas, Ritedose’s Chief Human Resource Officer notes, “Both Benedict College and inSpring share our commitment to developing the next generation of leaders.”

Through this partnership, students in STEM fields will have access to mentorship and invaluable experience, fulfilling critical roles in the company’s operations. In fact, Jessica Furrer, the interim dean of the school of science and engineering at Benedict College emphasizes the significance of this initiative. “The RISE Program offers international students a chance to become well versed in their field and develop the necessary skills to land a full-time job,” explains Furrer.

A Bright Future Ahead

As Ritedose anticipates a steady pipeline of talent from future classes at Benedict College, the impact of this program resonates beyond just job placements. It fuels the local economy, fosters diversity in the workforce, and enhances the skills of upcoming scientists. It is a win-win for both students and companies eager to develop a skilled workforce ready to tackle today’s challenges.

In conclusion, the partnership between Ritedose Corp., Benedict College, and inSpring does more than create job opportunities; it lays the groundwork for a diverse and skilled workforce in the STEM sectors. The RISE program represents a significant step toward empowering international students, giving them a voice and a role in shaping our world through science and innovation.