Students and Industry Professionals Unite for BioBash Fireside Chat
Ever-involved in the growing community of the life sciences and biotech ecosystem, we at Technology Enterprise Park (TEP) teamed up with the Atlanta chapter of Nucleate, a student-led organization that represents the largest global community of bio-innovators, to host a festive BioBash Fireside Chat on the front lawn late November.
Equipped with heaters and a hot cocoa bar to combat the chilly, near-winter evening, PhD students, life sciences entrepreneurs, and industry professionals gathered to celebrate the holiday season and the spirit of research and growth in Atlanta’s exciting life sciences and biotech ecosystem via an evening of education and networking.
After some mixing, mingling, and Mexican dining via a local food truck, attendees were invited to take their seats so the Fireside Chat could begin. Moderated by TEP’s very own Community Relationship Manager, Madison Cook, the panelists included the following women who are spearheading innovation and advancements in their field right in this very building:
Sahana Walter - Manufacturing Engineer, Abbott
Katie Fisher - Chief Technology Officer, VERO Biotech
Noriko Walker - Associate Director of Portfolio Management, Georgia Tech
Topics of discussion included large scale corporations versus smaller startups, career path decision making, women empowerment in the work field, and more.
Following the discussion, participants stayed to continue networking with one another. In particular, this event was great for both the students and companies at TEP because it allowed for students to be made aware of the great opportunities and happenings in the area and the programs offered by TEP tenants, ultimately helping those companies secure future top-tier talent.
For instance, Noriko expressed a shared concern for the lack of biotech and life sciences opportunities in Atlanta and that it can be hard to navigate. Which is why Science Square, a regional and global hub for bioscience and life sciences activity, will be a great addition to this community. With shared lab space, retail and restaurants, and residential space available, the launching of the innovation park in March 2024 will offer plenty of new ways to get involved. In fact, Science Square is projected to create 80,000+ jobs in the field.
Speaking of jobs, Sahana shared that companies like Abbott continuously encourage student involvement through multiple programs, as it’s mutually beneficial for both parties – they can have access to the best local student talent pool and recent grads can start their careers at a premier company. Katie also agreed, sharing her excitement in the type of energy this event brought to TEP and how she’s looking forward to more opportunities to engage with students from all over, including Georgia Tech, Emory, and Georgia State.
To get a glimpse into how the overall evening went, check out our video and be sure to keep an eye out for future events via our community calendar!