Pathmaker is a key component of the Healey-Driscoll Administration Economic Development Strategy to strengthen the Massachusetts’ historical competitiveness as a global hub for investment, innovation, and talent.
This program will be accepting applications until Jan. 6, 2027 at 5 p.m. EST.
Administered by the Massachusetts Executive Office of Economic Development in coordination with the Massachusetts Office of Business Development, Massachusetts Technology Collaborative, Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, and Massachusetts Clean Energy Center, the goals of the program are twofold:Â
Through sector-specific Pathmaker solicitations, the Commonwealth is bringing this model to life sciences, advanced manufacturing and robotics, defense, artificial intelligence and technology, and climate tech. Each sector will have a distinct RFP process, but all will operate within a common framework centered on employer demand, accessible training, quality jobs, measurable employment outcomes, and opportunities for long-term career advancement.
There is no better time for those interested in a career in the life sciences. This is a sector full of companies of all sizes with missions that truly change lives on a global scale. Starting salaries and paths for further career development in the life sciences represent unique opportunities for growth. No prior scientific work experience or higher education credentials needed. Learn about free training programs today.
Pathmaker will award direct funding to support organizations that can build and scale career pathways that effectively prepare students for high-demand career opportunities in the life sciences. The program also aims to provide already existing programs a “stamp of validation” for efforts that meet the most up-to-date industry criteria.
Pathmaker applicants must have at least one industry partnership that ensures that the program is responding to a direct hiring need. The program aims to leverage and catalyze the excellent workforce development resources in the Commonwealth and grow the talent pipeline and increase connections for employers to skilled, diverse workers in Massachusetts.
Pathmaker has grown out of an existing group of successful partnerships between life science companies and training providers that leverage the excellent workforce development resources we have in the Commonwealth and the previous investments the Center and others have made in the ecosystem. Pathmaker was announced in June 2023 at the BIO International Convention as part of the Healey-Driscoll Administration’s launch of a new strategy for connecting employers to skilled, diverse workers in Massachusetts.
The 2026 MassBioEd Life Sciences Employment Outlook indicates that:
The additional funding available through this program aims to amplify and scale these successful models to address the most pressing workforce needs in the industry and create a sustainable structure that can adapt to the future needs as the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and entrepreneurship continue to make Massachusetts the best place in the world for the life sciences.
If you have any questions please email Pathmaker@masslifesciences.com or click the button below.
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