April 23, 2026
Students from Brevard and Rosman high schools visited Gaia Herbs on April 23 as part of the Transylvania County Economic Alliance’s Manufacturing Day series designed to provide them a better understanding of how academic interests in health and science can be applied in non-clinical settings.
Photo courtesy TCAE
Students from Brevard and Rosman high schools recently toured several local manufacturers within Transylvania County’s biotechnology and life sciences sector as part of the Transylvania County Economic Alliance’s manufacturing day series designed to show how their academic interests can extend beyond traditional clinical roles and into careers in manufacturing, research, and production.
As part of the third and final TCEA manufacturing day event of the school year, 20 students visited Gaia Herbs and Raybow USA on April 23 to gain a better understanding of how health and science skills can be applied in non-clinical settings and how those skills are already in demand.
“Today students with an interest in health and wellness got a chance to see how those interests can take shape in a professional setting,” said Gaia Herbs Direcotor of Operations Mark Carland in a news release. “At Gaia Herbs, we grow, test, and manufacture our products all in one place. It takes a diverse team to make that happen, from farmers and technicians to scientists and quality specialists. There are many entry points for students to get started and grow within this industry.”
By seeing real-world laboratory and production environments in action, students were able to connect their classroom learning to practical applications. Staff from Transylvania County Public Schools and Blue Ridge Community College were on hand at these events to explain how training pathways and opportunities available both during high school and after graduation can prepare students for careers in this growing sector.
“Experiences like this help students expand their understanding of where their interests can take them,” said BRCC Dean of Advanced Technologies Joe Shook. “We aim to equip students with the skills and experience needed to pursue a variety of career paths, particularly those in advanced manufacturing within the biotechnology and life sciences sector where there is strong demand for skilled workers.”
“Providing students with exposure to industries they may not have considered is an important part of career exploration,” added TCS Director of Career and Technical Education Kerry Putnam. “When students can see how their skills apply in different settings, they are better equipped to make informed decisions about their future.”
The three-part manufacturing day series was created to showcase a variety of career opportunities within Transylvania County and broaden students’ perspectives on the pathways available to them.
According to the TCAE, the biotechnology and life sciences sector has included more than $55 million in investment and created more than 125 jobs since 2020 and this highlights the need to strengthen the local workforce pipeline to support continued growth.
“We’re proud to partner with our schools, community college, and local employers to create opportunities that expose students to the depth and diversity of our local economy,” said Shelia Carland, chair of the Transylvania Economic Alliance’s board of directors. “Biotechnology and life sciences is one of our target markets and continues to be a growing and important sector for Transylvania County. Connecting students to these opportunities today helps build the workforce we need for the future.”
The Transylvania Economic Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit economic development organization focused on reinforcing and building a dynamic, local economy in Transylvania County and across its unique places and communities. For more information, visit TransylvaniaNC.org or call (828) 393-4130.