INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. – Ivy Tech Community College today opened the doors of the Biopharma Science and Technology Lab, made possible with support from Eli Lilly and Company, on the campus of Ivy Tech Indianapolis. The lab will facilitate hands-on learning experiences for Ivy Tech students to launch or level up their careers in pharmaceutical manufacturing.
Ivy Tech is Indiana’s workforce engine, and we are well positioned to partner with Lilly to grow a diverse talent pool that’s ready to make medicines that solve some of the world’s most significant health challenges.
– Dr. Sue Ellspermann, Ivy Tech President
“The cutting-edge lab inaugurated today exemplifies our dedication to providing students with the resources and opportunities they need to excel in high-demand fields that contribute to the growth and prosperity of our state."
The lab includes more than 4,000 square feet of equipment and technology that simulates the working environment of biotechnology manufacturing facilities, including state-of-the-art labs that will allow students to observe and participate in each step of the biopharmaceutical production process – from cell cultivation to purification and quality control. Ivy Tech Indianapolis students will access skills training and learning experiences offered by today’s leading pharmaceutical companies – setting them up for a successful transition from the classroom to the production floor.
“Indiana’s economy depends on advanced manufacturing, and Lilly is investing at record levels in our home state’s facilities,” said Edgardo Hernandez, executive vice president and president, Lilly manufacturing. “Lilly’s contribution to Ivy Tech allows us to expand and enhance education and training opportunities at Indiana’s largest postsecondary institution while nurturing a strong pipeline of local talent that will fill the competitive and in-demand jobs being created by Lilly. Together, we’re shaping the future of the biopharmaceutical industry and Indiana’s economy.”
The Biopharma Science and Technology Lab is part of Lilly’s $15 million investment through 2028 in the Lilly Scholars at Ivy Tech program, which covers all tuition and fees annually for 1,000 eligible students pursuing certificates or associate degrees in biopharmaceutical manufacturing, biotechnology, smart manufacturing, digital integration and more. Lilly Scholars also have the opportunity to access work-based learning experiences with Lilly — including internships, apprenticeships and work-study programs — and are invited to apply for full-time employment with the company after graduation.
Priority consideration for the Lilly Scholars at Ivy Tech program is given to Indiana residents who are the first in their families to attend college or face significant barriers to education and work, expanding diverse pools of qualified talent interested in high-demand jobs like those being created at Lilly. At least 60% of scholarships will be awarded to students who live in Marion, Hendricks, Clinton and Boone counties, where Lilly has a manufacturing presence.
“Lilly Scholars at Ivy Tech opens the door of opportunity to students who want to change their lives by making medicines and products that people around the world need,” said Dr. Stacy Atkinson, chancellor, Ivy Tech Indianapolis. “Ivy Tech Indianapolis is proud to be home to a world-class laboratory facility that prepares our students for meaningful employment in the industries of the future and helps them achieve upward economic mobility.”
Through Ivy Tech’s partnerships with select K-12 institutions in communities where Lilly has a presence, Indiana high schoolers also have the opportunity to complete a biopharmaceutical manufacturing certificate through the Lilly Scholars program, which they can use toward an associate degree at Ivy Tech or apply those learned skills in the workforce upon graduation.
Ivy Tech and Lilly will open a second lab, the Ivy Tech Manufacturing Innovation Training Center, also supported by Eli Lilly and Company, on the campus of 16 Tech in summer 2024.
Since 2020, Lilly has invested $11B in global manufacturing, including $3.7 billion in Indiana-based manufacturing sites. The Lilly Scholars at Ivy Tech program is one component of the company’s strategy to ensure it has the skilled workforce it needs to meet the global demand for its medicines.
Individuals interested in applying for Lilly Scholars at Ivy Tech can learn more about the program by visiting IvyTech.edu/Lilly-Scholars. New scholarships are awarded to eligible students every 8-week term at Ivy Tech locations throughout Indiana.
About Ivy Tech Community College
Ivy Tech Community College is Indiana's largest public postsecondary institution and the nation's largest singly accredited statewide community college system, accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ivy Tech has campuses throughout Indiana and also serves thousands of students annually online. It serves as the state's engine of workforce development, offering associate degrees, long- and short-term certificate programs, industry certifications, and training that aligns with the needs of the community. The College provides a seamless transfer to other colleges and universities in Indiana, as well as out of state, for a more affordable route to a bachelor's degree.
