Frederick, MD – Frederick Innovative Technology Center, Inc. (FITCI) hosted University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) Shady Grove campus students at its location on 118 N Market Street to provide them with networking tips, practice, and a panel discussion with entrepreneurs this month.
The students, juniors and seniors majoring in Translational Life Science Technology (TLST), were provided with helpful networking tips from FITCI board members Jodie Bollinger (Acting Director of Economic and Workforce Development, Frederick County) and Richard Griffin (Director of Economic Development, The City of Frederick).
Following the informational presentation, students sat in on a panel of FITCI entrepreneurs who spoke about their entrepreneurial journeys and the importance of mastering the art of networking. Five member companies of FITCI participated, including: Jake Butt (Deepspace Applications), Alison Demarest (Pace Life Sciences, formerly Meridian Biogroup), Michael Mesa (Mesa Science Associates and MesaGreen Pharmaceuticals), Kwabena Okrah (Alirtify), and Stephen Turner (Nanocrine). Following the panel, the students were given a chance to practice their networking skills and apply knowledge they gained through the visit while networking with the entrepreneurs, FITCI board members, and FITCI staff.
The event was the second annual visit for the class of UMBC TLST students to FITCI. The event was organized by FITCI and Dr. Annica Wayman, Associate Dean for Shady Grove Affairs in the College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences at UMBC at the Universities of Shady Grove.
“These students are our next generation of life science practitioners, scientists, researchers, and entrepreneurs. I’d like to thank Dr. Wayman for once again bringing them to visit FITCI, and thank our board members and companies who participated,” says Kathie Callahan Brady, FITCI President and CEO. “It is very important to connect the next generation of innovators to those who are going through it and work in the field now while they are still in their educational journey. I hope the students got some internship ideas and opportunities from the visit as well.”
”The students leave FITCI so excited to learn about the strong biotechnology industry in Frederick, the possibility of biotech entrepreneurship, and practical tips on how to network. For many, it’s their first time networking in a reception setting,” says Dr. Wayman.
About Frederick Innovative Technology Center, Inc.
Frederick Innovative Technology Center, Inc., was founded in 2004 to be a solid foundation upon which entrepreneurs can build their enterprise, especially those in the uniquely demanding life science and technology sectors. FITCI acts as a resource partner and a bridge to the regional business ecosystem, connecting clients to programming, supportive services, and capital opportunities that bolster success for emerging businesses.
About UMBC at the Universities of Shady Grove
UMBC at The Universities at Shady Grove is located in Rockville, MD in the heart of Montgomery County. With seven undergraduate and six graduate programs available, it offers the academic reputation of UMBC in a convenient location with easy access to the government agencies, contractors and major healthcare organizations that call the area home.
