iBIO’s EPIC Pilot Project Wraps Up, Showcasing Schools and Employers Driving Real-World Learning

iBIO's EPIC Pilot Project Wraps Up, Showcasing Schools and Employers Driving Real-World Learning

by John Conrad| Sep 17, 2024| iBIO News

We are thrilled to announce the successful completion of the EPIC (Employer Provided Innovation Challenges) project, an initiative driven by the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation designed to provide students with hands-on, real-world learning experiences. In partnership with Waubonsee Community College and Oak Park River Forest High School, the pilot program connected students with industry leaders to tackle real challenges, build essential skills, and explore potential career pathways.

Waubonsee Community College and Oak Park River Forest Lead the Way

Waubonsee Community College and Oak Park River Forest High School played a pivotal role in the success of this year's EPIC project. Both schools embraced the opportunity to empower their students through experiential learning, giving them a chance to engage with industry experts while working on a critical challenge: improving diversity in clinical trials.

The student teams, guided by their educators, devoted approximately 40 hours to researching and collaborating on this complex issue. They analyzed the barriers to diversity in clinical trials and crafted thoughtful recommendations for industry sponsors from Amgen Inc. and Medline Industries. The project culminated in a series of virtual presentations, where students shared their insights and proposed solutions directly to these leading companies.

Industry Partners Make a Lasting Impact

Amgen Inc. and Medline Industries were instrumental in bringing this project to life. Their commitment to supporting students provided a unique opportunity for participants to apply their academic knowledge to a real-world problem. By bridging the gap between education and industry, Amgen and Medline helped students gain a deeper understanding of the challenges within clinical trials and the importance of diversity in healthcare. Their involvement highlights the power of collaboration in shaping the future workforce.

The long-term vision is to build a sustainable, scalable program that offers "stackable" projects, allowing students to participate in multiple challenges over time and gain a diverse range of experiences. Schools will have the flexibility to choose projects that align with their curriculum and student interests, creating ongoing opportunities for growth and learning. Administered through the Riipen platform, EPIC expands access to industry-driven challenges, ensuring equitable opportunities for career exploration and skill development.

Looking Forward

With the enthusiastic support of Waubonsee Community College, Oak Park River Forest High School, Amgen Inc., and Medline Industries, EPIC has made a strong impact in its first phase. The overwhelmingly positive feedback from students, educators, and employers alike has motivated us to expand the program to even more schools and industry partners in the coming year.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our incredible school and employer partners for their commitment to this project. Together, we are creating valuable learning experiences that shape the next generation of professionals.

For more information on how to connect with EPIC as an employer or education partner, please contact:
AnnVogel, [email protected]