The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) has awarded Solano Community College $6.55 million to expand biotechnology education. Photo courtesy of Solano Community College

FAIRFIELD, CA (MPG) - Solano Community College has been awarded $6.55 million from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) to expand biotechnology education, hands-on training and career pathways for students pursuing opportunities in California's growing life sciences industry. 

The $6,552,640 award will support EPIC-IDEA (Expanded Pathways in Cell-Based Manufacturing to Increase Diversity, Equity, and Advancement), an initiative designed to prepare students for careers in regenerative medicine, biotechnology and cell-based manufacturing. The funding was approved by CIRM's governing board in September 2026 as part of a statewide investment in education, research and workforce development. 

“This investment is a tremendous opportunity for Solano Community College and, more importantly, for the students and communities we serve,” said Dr. Kellie Sims Butler, superintendent-president of Solano Community College. “By providing affordable, expanded access to advanced biotechnology education and hands-on training, we are creating pathways to meaningful, high-demand careers while helping meet the workforce needs of one of California's most innovative industries. This award recognizes the strength of our programs and our commitment to transforming student lives.”

The EPIC-IDEA program builds upon Solano Community College’s established biotechnology and biomanufacturing programs, including its Bachelor of Science in Biomanufacturing, a degree program which just celebrated its 10-year anniversary. The initiative will integrate two complementary training pathways, Bridges and COMPASS, allowing students to progress from foundational laboratory training to advanced coursework, research experiences and industry internships. 

Through the Bridges pathway, students early in their college education will have opportunities to develop laboratory skills and participate in extended internships. The COMPASS pathway will provide advanced training and professional development opportunities for students completing Solano's bachelor's degree in biomanufacturing. 

Students participating in the program will gain experience in stem cell science, gene therapy, biomanufacturing and related disciplines. The initiative will also provide mentorship, career guidance and professional development designed to help students transition into the workforce or pursue additional education. 

A central focus of EPIC-IDEA is expanding access to biotechnology careers for students from diverse and underserved backgrounds, including first-generation college students and individuals who may face financial or educational barriers to entering science-related fields. 

Led by Dr. Rennee Moore, the program will build upon existing partnerships with academic institutions and biotechnology employers to connect classroom instruction with practical, career-focused experience. 

The award further strengthens Solano Community College’s role in developing the skilled workforce needed to support California's biotechnology and regenerative medicine industries. The college’s existing programs provide students with opportunities to pursue advanced scientific training while remaining connected to their local communities and regional employment opportunities. 

 The new funding is part of more than $90 million approved by CIRM in September 2026 to support 17 education and workforce training programs throughout California. These investments are intended to expand opportunities for students and strengthen the state's capacity to advance regenerative medicine research and innovation. 

For more information about Solano Community College's biotechnology and biomanufacturing programs, visit https://solano.edu/academic-programs/biomanufacturing.php.