Charlottetown, PEI – November 20, 2025 — The Canadian Alliance for Skills and Training in Life Sciences (CASTL) today announced the launch of its new BioWorks Accelerate Program, a four-week blended training initiative designed to equip participants with essential skills and practical experience for work in regulated biomanufacturing environments.
Developed in collaboration with Holland College and delivered through CASTL’s Online Academy and state-of-the-art training facilities, the program provides foundational technical knowledge in Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), cleanroom operations, and biomanufacturing processes, ensuring learners gain hands-on, industry-aligned experience.
“This program addresses a critical need across Canada’s biomanufacturing sector — the demand for well-trained entry-level talent with a solid understanding of GMP environments,” said Penny Walsh McGuire, CEO of CASTL. “Our GMP Fundamentals Program provides the foundation individuals need to build meaningful, future-focused careers in life sciences manufacturing.”
About the Program
Over the course of four weeks, participants complete:
- Three weeks of online learning, including microcredentials in Effective Communication, Leadership, and Team Building Skills.
- One week of in-person practical training in one of CASTL’s GMP-simulated training facilities, focusing on contamination control, buffer preparation, aseptic technique, and an overview of upstream and downstream processing.
The program is designed for entry-level professionals, students, or individuals transitioning into life sciences careers who wish to gain recognized, industry-informed training that supports employment readiness.
Upon completion, participants receive joint microcredentials from CASTL and Holland College, preparing them for technician-level roles in biomanufacturing, quality control, and laboratory operations.
A Growing Need for GMP Skills
The launch of the BioWorks Accelerate Program supports CASTL’s mission to build a skilled and sustainable workforce that meets the needs of Canada’s growing biomanufacturing and life sciences ecosystem.
“As Canada continues to invest in domestic biomanufacturing capacity, programs like BioWorks Accelerate help ensure that the next generation of workers are equipped with the foundational knowledge, confidence, and practical experience to succeed,” said Sven Ansorge, CASTL Director of Technical Training/Site Lead Montreal.
The program reflects CASTL’s commitment to accessible, hands-on, industry-aligned training delivered through its coast-to-coast network of GMP-simulated facilities in Charlottetown, Montreal, and Vancouver.
- Duration: 4 weeks (3 weeks self-directed online learning + 3 days in-person technical training)
- Format: Blended self-directed and in-person training at CASTL’s GMP-simulated facilities
- Locations: Charlottetown, PE; Montreal, QC; Vancouver, BC
- Fee: $250 + applicable taxes
- Travel: Participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodations, if applicable
As part of the CASTL BioWorks program, Canadian biomanufacturing employers pay just $250 for each qualified employee* to participate.
*Candidates must be living and eligible to work in Canada with at least one year remaining on their work permit, hold a minimum of a high school education, have at least three years of work experience (full-time, part-time, or volunteer), and be under consideration for cross-training, new product streams, or career advancement.
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About CASTL
The Canadian Alliance for Skills and Training in Life Sciences (CASTL) is Canada’s biomanufacturing training partner, dedicated to developing skilled talent to drive the country’s thriving biomanufacturing sector. With state-of-the-art, GMP-simulated facilities from coast to coast (in Charlottetown, PE; Montreal QC, and Vancouver, BC), CASTL delivers hands-on, industry-informed training alongside flexible online learning. As Canada’s exclusive provider of National Institute for Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT) programs, CASTL offers world-class education with support from adMare BioInnovations and its adMare Academy, shaping the next generation of life sciences professionals.
Media Inquiries
Heidi Reinblatt
Director, Marketing and Communications
Canadian Alliance for Skills and Training in Life Sciences (CASTL)
heidi@castlcanada.ca
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