Developed in collaboration with the Bioscience Community of Practice, the model was developed to show the skills that are essential to a diverse group of industries and activities with a common link - they apply knowledge of the way in which plants, animals, and humans function. This model is designed to evolve along with changing skill requirements.

The study "Technology, Talent and Capital: State Bioscience Initiatives 2008" defines the biosciences as a diverse group of industries and activities with a common link" -- they apply knowledge of the way in which plants, animals, and humans function. The sector spans different markets and includes manufacturing, services, and research activities. By definition, the biosciences are a unique industry cluster and are constantly changing to incorporate the latest research and scientific discoveries.

The Bioscience Community of Practice (COP) is comprised of a group of individuals who share a common interest in the bioscience industry and who interact voluntarily and regularly to exchange information related to workforce and economic development efforts. This group was formed in July 2007 by stakeholders from the bioscience industry, academia, and the workforce development communities.

The Bioscience COP will champion the competency model by creating an awareness of the model, promoting its use, and keeping the model up to date by providing input around changing skill needs. COP members will share resources developed in support of workforce development such as career ladder/lattices, model curriculum, and promising practices on WWW.WORKFORCE3ONE.ORG. Also see:

The Compentency Model Clearinghouse now contains the following models: