CORE SKILLS INSTITUTE

Performance-Based Bioscience Microcredentialing - Bioscience Core Skills Institute's primary program service is the development and delivery of performance-based microcredentials that validate hands-on bioscience and biomanufacturing laboratory skills. During the reporting year, BCSI expanded its credentialing activities across 27 states, supporting secondary schools, community colleges, universities, and workforce training programs serving students and early-career professionals. BCSI credentials are awarded through direct observation and standardized assessment using industry-aligned rubrics. Participating education and training programs consistently report that BCSI microcredentials provide graduates with a competitive advantage in employment and internship placement, and improve instructional quality by clarifying proficiency expectations. Programs also report measurable improvements in student preparedness and confidence following assessment. During the reporting period, BCSI partnered with dozens of education and workforce programs and credentialed approximately 30-45 students per program annually, depending on program size and scope. BCSI does not provide grants to individuals; program services are delivered through assessment, credential issuance, evaluator training, and technical assistance.

Certified Evaluator Training and Quality Assurance - BCSI's second largest program service is the training and certification of bioscience educators and industry professionals as Certified Evaluators. This program ensures national consistency, quality assurance, and scalability of BCSI's assessment model. During the reporting year, BCSI trained and supported a growing national network of Certified Evaluators who administer hands-on skills assessments using standardized protocols. Evaluator training includes assessment calibration, rubric interpretation, professionalism, and data integrity. This program enables local delivery of assessments while maintaining national standards. Certified Evaluators support testing across high schools, colleges, workforce programs, and employer sites, increasing access to validated skills assessment while reducing geographic and cost barriers for learners.