Career and Technology Education (CTE) programs are specialized educational pathways that equip students with the practical skills and knowledge needed for specific careers and industries. By providing technical training and opportunities to practice employability skills like teamwork, problem-solving, and communication, CTE prepares students for immediate entry into the workforce, further education, or advanced training. 

Biotechnology and CTE make great partners

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment growth in biotechnology—including roles such as biology technicians, bioengineers, biostatisticians, and medical scientists—is projected to be between 5% to 16% over the next 10 years. This significantly outpaces the average for other industries. This trend reflects the increasing demand for medical research and advancements in biotechnology, indicating strong career prospects. Students who can learn biotechnology skills in high school will have an advantage in these careers as they enter the workforce.

Creating a CTE biotechnology program

If you want to start a CTE-based biotechnology program at your school, developing a curriculum that aligns with state and local course requirements is critical. Several states, including Arizona, California, Massachusetts, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia, offer CTE biotechnology courses that can serve as a starting point for your curriculum, even if you do not live in one of these states. Generally, all state curricula address four major topics in the biotechnology field:

1. Introduction to Biotechnology: Students receive an overview of biotechnology and its applications, including an introduction to careers in biotechnology. 
2. Laboratory Techniques: Students familiarize themselves with basic laboratory safety and equipment and learn basic laboratory techniques, such as micropipetting, DNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR).
3. Ethical Issues in Biotechnology: Discussion of the ethical implications of biotechnological advances.
4. Biological concepts: Students review their understanding of core biology concepts, including DNA structure and function and cell biology, to explain how basic biotechnology techniques can be used in research, product development, pharmaceuticals, medicine, public health, business, and manufacturing.

Many states incorporate the Biotechnology Assistant Credentialing Exam (BACE) into their biotechnology programs, using its requirements to shape their curricula. The BACE credential is an industry-recognized exam designed to assess core skills and knowledge.

Real-world tools for the biotechnology classroom

While curricula can vary, the table below illustrates that some techniques — including micropipetting, PCR, and gel electrophoresis —are essential to any CTE biotechnology course.

miniPCR bio offers several tools teachers can use to scaffold the exploration of these techniques in the classroom. Here, we highlight equipment and teaching resources that are especially suited to the CTE biotechnology classroom:

1. Our Starter Classroom Pack includes all of the tools necessary to equip your biotechnology class, including micropipettes, miniPCR gel electrophoresis systems, and thermal cyclers. This equipment allows students to wield cutting-edge biotechnology tools that are safe, durable, and easy to use.
2. Our Full STEAM Ahead! Micropipette Art kit introduces micropipetting in a way that is low-stakes and fun. Use engaging art activities to help students build confidence with this essential technique. 
3. Once students have a solid understanding of biotechnology basics, it’s crucial for them to participate in lab activities that promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The miniPCR eDNA Project allows students to explore their environment by conducting real environmental DNA sampling and analysis. They can then upload their experimental results to a public database.

Professional development for CTE biotechnology educators

Several professional development opportunities are available for teachers to interact with their peers and discuss how to integrate biotechnology into their CTE classes. miniPCR will be at the national ACTE Vision conference in December 2024. Visit us on the expo floor and learn how miniPCR bio can help you create your CTE biotechnology course.

Related resources:

• The importance of biotechnology education
• Best labs for project-based learning
• How to bring PCR into your classroom