Santa Fe College’s new Perry Center for Emerging Technologies in Alachua is sponsoring an open house from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 23 for anyone interested in learning more about the center or Santa Fe’s new high tech majors.
Visitors can explore the world of advanced laboratory technology and sophisticated medical equipment repair as they tour the brand new, state-of-the-art Emerging Technologies training center.
Faculty and advisors will guide participants through the hands-on training laboratories for careers in biotechnology, biomedical engineering (electrical), and the new bachelor’s degree as a clinical laboratory specialist. All three programs are unique, one-of-a-kind training programs in this region of Florida.
Clinical Laboratory Science
Clinical laboratory science is microscopic detective work — think “CSI” — that uses sophisticated microscopes and laboratory instrumentation to diagnose all types of diseases and disorders. Graduates of this program will find they are in high demand both locally and nationwide, with the ability to quickly move up the career ladder into supervisory positions.
Biotechnology
Biotechnology manipulates and modifies cells’ genetics to create new medicine for diseases, safe pesticides for crops, more abundant and nutritious food for developing countries, etc. It leads to many different career possibilities that can include clinical, commercial and agricultural applications. Joining a biotechnology “start-up” company can lead to a substantial salary increases between years one and two of work, because of the small size of many companies coupled with growth in economic viability.
Biomedical Engineering
Biomedical engineering is hands-on knowledge to repair the advanced medical equipment in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic centers. Students in this field need good basic math skills and excellent hand-to-eye motor skills.
Career Prospects
“Clinical laboratory science and biomedical engineering grads typically see starting salaries at or around $40,000 in North Central Florida,” said Scott Fortner, health sciences counselor. “Biotechnology grads start out at about $27,000. All have outstanding room for professional growth and higher levels of pay.”
Directions
The center is located on US 441 across from Progress Corporate Park south of Alachua. The actual address is 14180 NW 119th Terr., Alachua (32615).
For more information about the open house or any of these exciting programs, please contact Scott Fortner at scott.fortner@sfcollege.edu or 352-395-5733 or go online to http://www.sfcollege.edu/emergingtechcenter/.
CONTACT:
- Scott Fortner, health sciences counselor, 352-395-5733, or scott.fortner@sfcollege.edu
- Julie Garrett, for help facilitating your story, 352-870-2924 (cell) or 352-395-5430 (office), or julie.garrett@sfcollefe.edu