What is biotechnology? San Jac programs offer hands-on learning
As Houston’s biotechnology sector grows, so does the need for trained technicians.
The term biotechnology may sound complex, but San Jacinto College offers students a new way to look at biology, providing hands-on training for careers in biomanufacturing and lab environments — no advanced science background required.
Biotechnology is the use of biological systems and living organisms to develop useful products including those that improve human health, with applications ranging from medications like Ozempic to advanced treatments such as chimeric antigen receptor or CAR T-cell therapy. The College program places an emphasis on practical techniques rather than a focus on theory, preparing students to work behind the scenes in sterile, highly regulated environments.
“It's amazing that we can use cells to grow proteins of interest for patients who need it,” said Kevin Rodriguez, biotechnology instructor at the South Campus. “This is where patients battling a disease like cancer can have their own immune cells reprogrammed to fight the disease in a targeted fashion, unlike chemotherapy, which is known to have a lot of side effects.”
It’s all about how to use what is known about the natural world and apply these concepts to helping people.
Turning science into treatment
Biomanufacturing technicians play a crucial role in producing vaccines, cell therapies, and other biologic treatments used in modern medicine.
Technicians help manufacture personalized therapies without direct patient contact, making this field ideal for those who want to make a meaningful impact without working in traditional clinical roles.
“The people who do the best are those who truly feel a calling to help someone, whether it's cancer, vaccines, or immunocompromised patients, among other things,” Rodriguez said. “A lot of our students are realizing a career in science is actually more attainable than they thought. You don’t have to be proficient in science. We can help with that. We teach in a way that makes it easy to understand.”
Supply and demand mean career growth opportunities
“The Texas Medical Center makes Houston a huge draw for this field,” Rodriguez said. “Most companies that manufacture these types of drugs or products want to come to Houston to be close to the thousands of patients who travel to the medical center every day from around the world.”
Biomanufacturing facilities located nearby can reduce wait times significantly for patients who need time-sensitive treatments. When therapies like cell or gene treatments are made locally, they don’t need to be shipped long distances in specialized containers via air or ground. Local production also reduces the chances of delays, storage temperature fluctuations, or logistical issues during transport.
The work environment is comparable to that of a surgical technician, requiring sterile or secured clean-room areas with multiple layers of protection that are required to safeguard against microbes.
Start fresh or build on existing knowledge
San Jac’s biotechnology program accommodates various levels of learners. Beginners and those who are pursuing or already have higher degrees in biotechnology can obtain hands-on experience outside of academic studies, maximizing workplace readiness.
Learn more about degrees and certificates in biotechnology
About San Jacinto College
Surrounded by monuments of history, evolving industries, maritime enterprises of today,
and the space age of tomorrow, San Jacinto College has served the people of East Harris
County, Texas, since 1961. The College is ranked second in the nation among more than
1,100 community colleges, as designated by the Aspen Institute and was named an Achieving
the Dream Leader College of Distinction in 2020 and 2026. As a Hispanic-Serving Institution
that spans five campuses, plus an online college, San Jacinto College serves approximately
45,000 credit and non-credit students annually. It offers more than 200 degrees and
certificates across eight major areas of study that put students on a path to transfer
to four-year institutions or enter the workforce. The College is fiscally sound, holding
bond ratings of AA+ by Standard & Poor’s and Aa2 by Moody’s. San Jacinto College is
accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
