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Life Sciences Bridge Program – Paid Job Readiness Training in Greater Hazelwood

A 50-Hour Paid Program for Young Adults (Ages 18–24) Interested in Life Sciences Careers

Residents of Greater Hazelwood and the surrounding Neighborhood Commitment areas receive priority enrollment.

Applications open in November 2025. Cohort #1 runs March-April 2026.
Free, paid training – limited seats.

Life Sciences Bridge Program

Why Life Sciences?

Pittsburgh is undergoing a significant expansion in biotech and biomanufacturing, with projects like Pitt BioForge and the development of Hazelwood Green creating new career opportunities. Entry-level roles do not always require a college degree—this program helps participants understand which pathways fit them and how to get started.

Program Overview

The Life Sciences Bridge Program is a 50-hour paid training experience designed to help young adults explore opportunities in the life sciences industry. Participants learn essential job-readiness skills, gain exposure to real-world lab environments, and build confidence to pursue careers in one of Pittsburgh’s fastest-growing sectors.

Supported by the University of Pittsburgh and community partners, the program aims to create direct pathways from the neighborhood into the life sciences workforce.

Participants earn $22/hour for completing the program.

Who Should Apply

This program is designed for:

Ages 18 to 24

Individuals from Greater Hazelwood (priority)

Young adults exploring career options

Those who want to understand life sciences without needing a college degree

Individuals facing employment or educational barriers

If additional spaces become available, applicants from Homewood, the Hill District, and Oakland may also be considered.

What You’ll Learn

Participants receive hands-on exposure to the life sciences field and practical guidance they can use immediately.

Core Training Areas Include:

Job Readiness

Resume building, interview preparation, workplace expectations, and professional communication.

Hands-On Learning

Introductory lab skills, equipment demonstrations, and exposure to scientific concepts in an accessible way.

Skills Development

Problem-solving, teamwork, time-management, and essential workplace behaviors.

Career Exploration

Guidance on life sciences pathways, entry-level opportunities, future training options, and job-matching support.

Program Schedule & Location

Details on the exact schedule and meeting times will be shared during the onboarding process.

Program Length 50 hours total
Cohort #1 March–April 2026
Instruction Mode In-person
Location Greater Hazelwood / University of Pittsburgh partner sites
Compensation $22/hour (paid upon successful program completion)

Program Partners

This initiative is supported by organizations committed to expanding economic mobility in Greater Hazelwood:

University of Pittsburgh Neighborhood Commitments Greater Hazelwood
Davis Consulting Solutions (DCS) Job readiness and workforce development
Catapult Greater Pittsburgh Support services and participant stability resources
Equity Systems Consulting (ESC) Career navigation and coaching
The Heinz Endowments Program support

HOW TO APPLY

1

Join the Interest List

Fill out our short form to be notified as soon as applications open in November 2025.

2

Check Eligibility

Ensure you meet these requirements:

  • Age 18–24
  • Live in Greater Hazelwood (or related Neighborhood Commitment areas)

3

Complete Application & Interview

Once applications open, selected participants may be contacted for an interview or orientation session.

Get Ready to Start in March 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Participants earn $22/hour for completing the 50-hour program.

No. The workshops are designed for beginners.

No college degree is required.

Priority is given to Greater Hazelwood residents, but other neighborhoods may be eligible if space allows.

Cohorts are intentionally small (around 12 people) to ensure personalized support.

Some wrap-around services are provided through partner organizations.

Ready to Get Started?

Join the Interest List Today

Space is limited and applications fill quickly. Be the first to know when enrollment opens.

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