Research Animal Care and Management
Organization: Front Range Community College
Grant Round: Workforce Innovation II
Program’s Objectives: The project will train participants in Laboratory animal technology (for employment in animal research facilities). Participants will either complete exam preparation to take the American Association of Lab Animal Science (AALAS) certification exam (ALAT - Assistant Lab Animal Technician or LAT - Lab Animal Technician) or receive entry-level job skills training.
The entry-level training will provide job-specific animal technology skills and there is an associate degree program to obtain the formal education for future career advancement. The degree will transfer to a future new baccalaureate degree in CSU's animal science department, resulting in the creation of a career ladder. The program becomes a 1+2+2 program when partnered with the high school animal technology program that is currently taught at FRCC. Industry partners will provide hands-on training opportunities via internships.
Individuals Served: Currently FRCC ALT Program has 23 Workforce registered participants. These students receive AALAS certification exam preparation at their institution. Monthly program information meetings are offered as well as other community outreach opportunities such as career and science days.
Success Story: Our first Animal Care Certificate will be awarded to an adult student with a B.S. whose goal is to obtain employment within biomedical research. The Animal Research Technology Program fulfilled her need for basic training necessary beyond her Bachelor Degree.
Quote: “I am very encouraged by the success of the AALAS certification training courses. The first class has taken their exam for certification with an excellent pass rate. The program is able to assist industry need for certified animal caretakers.”
-- Mardie Altman, Director Animal Laboratory Program, Research Animal Care and Management
Collaborators: National Jewish Health, High Quality Research, University of Colorado Health services, Colorado State University Laboratory Animal Resources, Mile High AALAS.