Christine Nassiwa worked as an IT Technician and healthcare Certified Assistant before enrolling in Bioversity’s free, eight-week Biotech Career Foundations program in Boston. After graduating, she was hired as a Bioprocess Associate at Bristol-Myers Squibb, one of the world’s leading biopharmaceutical companies. Christine brought a rare combination of technical troubleshooting and patient care experience to the program — and found in biotech a field that put both to use. Below, she shares her experience in her own words.

What were you doing before joining Bioversity’s training program?

I wore two hats: I worked as an IT Technician and also had experience in healthcare as a Certified Assistant. When my IT contract ended, I knew I wanted to pivot into a field that combined my technical troubleshooting skills with my passion for patient care.

What motivated you to join Bioversity?

My background in healthcare gave me the initial spark; I already understood the importance of patient outcomes. I wanted to stay in the life sciences but move into a role that was more stable and technically focused. Bioversity felt like the perfect way to build on my existing healthcare knowledge.

What was your experience like in the program?

It was an intensive but incredibly rewarding experience. It provided the exact bridge I needed to move from “tech” to “biotech.”

How did Bioversity help you build the skills and confidence needed for your current role?

The program gave me a foundational knowledge of lab work. It demystified the environment so that when I stepped into a professional lab, I wasn’t intimidated by the equipment or the protocols.

What excites you most about the work you’re doing in your new job?

As a Bioprocess Associate at Bristol-Myers Squibb (BMS), I love the daily troubleshooting and the constant learning. Most importantly, I am motivated by the fact that the processes I manage directly impact patient health.

How has your life changed since you graduated from Bioversity’s training program?

My life has changed for the better. I have career stability, the ability to provide for myself, and a clear career path for growth. Bioversity didn’t just give me a certificate, it gave me the confidence to enter a high-stakes industry and succeed from the word “Go”!

What advice would you give to someone considering applying to Bioversity?

Stay focused and give it your all. Be curious, pair up with your peers, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Always remember that closed mouths don’t get feed so always ask the important questions and network intentionally.