Animal Technician Academy Starts in January

The Kalamazoo area has experienced continued growth in the pharmaceutical research industry, which has led to a need for entry-level Laboratory Animal Technicians possessing functional disciplined skills to address the duties this position requires. These positions have proven difficult to fill. There are a low number of potential employees with the necessary skills, abilities, and knowledge for this level of work. In order to expand the skilled labor pool, local industry identified key skills that applicants need for successful employment.

The Animal Technician Academy will begin on January 27, 2015 at the Groves Campus of Kalamazoo Valley Community College.

The Animal Technician Academy is a pre-employment training program that prepares students with the basic knowledge and skills to provide humane handling and overall care for animals. The class is limited to 12 enrollees.

Over the six-week period, students will gain a basic knowledge in all aspects of animal technology including basic anatomy and physiology, identification methods, humane care and maintenance, health and observation, handling techniques, biosecurity, record keeping and medical terminology. In addition, students will gain skills in effective communication, workplace safety, critical thinking and employability. Hands-on training is species specific and taught by highly qualified personnel.

Successful completion of the Academy prepares students for an entry-level position as a lab-animal technician within a research or laboratory facility. Classes will be held Tuesday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Kalamazoo Valley Groves Campus, while the lab training will be offered offsite at MPI Research in Mattawan.

Acceptance into the growing number of Kalamazoo Valley Career Academies is competitive and is based on a written application, feedback from references, math and reading assessment, interviews, and background screening.

Those who complete the Animal Technician Academy requirements will receive a certificate of completion and a transcript of competency. As with all Academy programs, training will be provided to enhance employability skills as well.

The fee is $900. Financial assistance is available through Michigan job training assistance programs, Kalamazoo Promise, and V.A. Education benefits.

Entry-level wages can range from $19,000 to $25,000 annually. An experienced animal technician can earn from $25,000 to $41,000 per year.

For details about applications, deadlines and other information, call (269) 353-1282, e-mail careeracademies@kvcc.edu or go: https://www.kvcc.edu/animaltech.