The biotechnology industry offers professionals a great way to impact the world. It creates pathways for innovation, impact, and lifelong learning.
What does career growth in biotechnology look like in today’s landscape? What kind of skills help a person contribute to life-saving therapies? How can one stay ahead of regulatory changes? What leadership skills should folks develop to thrive?
In this interview, Ricardo Tablada, M.P.S. ’19, Biotechnology, shares how education, mentorship, and purpose have helped him in his biotechnology career.
Early Steps Toward Career Growth in Biotechnology
Dennise Cardona, M.A. ’23:
Can you tell us about your professional endeavors so far in the biotech world?
Ricardo Tablada, M.P.S. ’19, Biotechnology:
I began working in biotechnology in 2018, around the same time I started UMBC’s M.P.S. program. The program helped open doors to my first role as a manufacturing associate. Even today, I apply what I learned in a regulatory affairs course. Regulations change often, and my up-to-date knowledge helps me add value in professional discussions.
How Education Supports Career Growth in Biotechnology
Dennise:
How has UMBC prepared you for your current role?
Ricardo:
I work as a Technical Operations Specialist at Catalent in the Manufacturing Technical Operations group. My role involves CAPAs and deviation investigations. The program covered both of these areas. More importantly, I developed a quality mindset. Quality guides every decision in all aspects of operations.
Finding Purpose in a Biotechnology Career
Dennise:
What do you love most about biotechnology and being in the field?
Ricardo:
Knowing that my work matters. I contributed to COVID-19 vaccine manufacturing and now help with rare cancer therapies. This type of career growth in biotechnology makes every day meaningful. Beyond a paycheck, I know I’m part of something greater.
Choosing Biotechnology Graduate Education for Career Growth
Dennise:
What was your reason for applying to the graduate program?
Ricardo:
With a biochemistry background, I wanted to move closer to medicine-related science. A friend recommended UMBC. After attending an open house, I knew it was the right fit. I loved the flexibility. I worked full time while studying, and both professors and my employer supported me.
Advancing Through Career Growth in Biotechnology
Dennise:
Did you pursue the master’s to advance your career?
Ricardo:
Yes. After my first semester, I landed my first biotech job. Later, I moved internally into my current role, which wouldn’t have been possible without the M.P.S. degree.
Building Confidence Through Biotechnology Graduate Training
Dennise:
Did the program meet your expectations?
Ricardo:
Absolutely. I wanted to understand the full biotech process, not just end products. Site visits and hands-on experiences gave me confidence. My thought is that with knowledge comes the ability to step into bigger roles.
Overcoming Hesitation About Graduate School
Dennise:
Did you hesitate before starting graduate school?
Ricardo:
I was nervous. Graduate school is demanding. But as I developed good study habits, I realized, hey, I can do this. My fears disappeared as I progressed.
Collaboration as a Key to Career Growth in Biotechnology
Dennise:
How did your peers contribute to your success?
Ricardo:
The small program size built close bonds. We relied on each other’s strengths. We collaborated and supported each other through it all. I’m glad I learned how to work in a team. I do that every day in my position in the biotechnology industry.
Faculty Mentorship Driving Biotechnology Careers
Dennise:
How did faculty support your growth?
Ricardo:
Faculty members acted as mentors, not just instructors. Many worked in the industry. They offered career guidance, do’s and dont’s. I still reach out to them today for advice.
Courses that Strengthen Career Growth in Biotechnology
Dennise:
Did you have a favorite course?
Ricardo:
Business Management Principles, hands down. That class taught me root cause analysis and leadership skills. I learned a lot of lessons in that class. Those lessons shape my work every day. I’d say that no course went unused. Every single one of them contributed to my biotechnology career.
Key Takeaway: A Mindset for Career Growth in Biotechnology
Dennise:
What was your biggest takeaway from UMBC?
Ricardo:
Always keep learning. The program opened my mind to new ways of thinking. Continuous growth and curiosity are essential in biotechnology. It’s hard to be in this industry without that mindset.
Closing
Career growth in biotechnology requires adaptability, purpose, and the willingness to learn. Ricardo’s journey shows how education, collaboration, and mentorship prepare professionals to make meaningful contributions to global health and innovation.
Watch this clip from our conversation.