Workforce development for biomanufacturing: Strategies for a resilient and skilled industry

The global biomanufacturing sector is expanding rapidly, fueled by next-generation technologies such as continuous processing and single-use systems and by rising demand for monoclonal antibodies and recombinant proteins. At the same time, reshoring of critical biologics and pharmaceuticals is reshaping the landscape, positioning biomanufacturing as a pillar of national security, economic resilience, and healthcare innovation. Yet despite this momentum, workforce shortages remain the sector’s most pressing constraint—threatening operational capacity by 2035 and underscoring the urgent need for coordinated education and training initiatives to build a diverse, innovation-ready talent pipeline. This paper explores workforce strategies derived from Biomanufacturing NEXT, a structured 2-day expert roundtable convened with leaders across education, research, industry, investment, and government. Key insights emphasize aligning job requirements with skill development, strengthening industry–academia collaboration, and expanding non-degree pathways, certifications, and mentorship models. Actionable recommendations highlight how higher education can drive new forms of partnership, outreach, and community engagement to ensure a robust workforce for biomanufacturing and other advanced industries.