The role of a laboratory technician in the chemical industry is constantly evolving. Scientific and technological improvements in process analysis, instrumentation, and methodology have forever changed the role of an industrial chemist or technician. The BEST grant is a five year NSF funded grant to develop hands-on techniques to focus on experiments designed to mimic an industrial setting. In addition, this hands-on applied learning approach emphasizes development of the "soft" skills that are often overlooked in the educational environment. These skills include, but are not limited to, working as part of a team, respecting diversity, effective communication (written and oral), networking, collaboration, utilization of technology, and thinking critically.<br/><br/>MATC faculty meet twice a year with Milwaukee area industry personnel in the chemical field to assess the skill set needed for employment in their respective companies. Curriculum, equipment, facilities, are monitored to ascertain the viability of the skill set taught at MATC is required of the industry.  Each summer 14 interns are chosen and paid to work 8 weeks during the summer at various companies.  All interns from this program have either been hired by the company or the intern has transferred to a four year institution to continue their education. In Milwaukee the job market for chemistry lab technicians continues to be robust and this program has been an integral part.

Promoting STEM disciplines in industry through hands-on applications using the biochemical excellence in science and technology (BEST) NSF grant at Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC)

251st National Meeting (2016)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.