Durham Tech, Novo Nordisk Break Ground on Life Sciences Center

In a milestone moment for workforce development and biotechnology education in the Triangle, Durham Technical Community College joined leaders from Novo Nordisk and Durham County on Monday to break ground on the Novo Nordisk Life Sciences Center - a state-of-the-art, 35,000-square-foot facility that will prepare students for in-demand careers in the life sciences industry.

The center, slated to open in 2026, is the result of a powerful public-private partnership supported by $35.2 million in county-approved bond funding and a record-setting $6 million corporate gift from Novo Nordisk - the largest in Durham Tech’s history.

Durham Tech President J.B. Buxton called the groundbreaking “a celebration of partnership, vision, and investment in our students,” and emphasized the broader impact on both the local workforce and the biotechnology sector.

“This facility will provide an outstanding educational experience to ensure the talent pipeline for a rapidly growing field that is improving health outcomes, while giving our students careers with upward economic mobility opportunities,” Buxton said.

A Hub for Talent, Innovation, and Access

The Novo Nordisk Life Sciences Center will anchor Durham Tech’s expanding biotechnology offerings and serve as a regional hub for life sciences training. When complete, the center will:

• Launch a Biotechnology Associate of Applied Science degree program
• Host hands-on workforce training programs to upskill and reskill workers for biotech careers
• Feature industry-standard equipment to ensure students are trained on the same tools used in today’s labs
• Provide career exposure opportunities for middle and high school students in the area

Durham County Board of Commissioners Chair Nida Allam noted that the center reflects the values and priorities of Durham residents.

“Today marks a celebration of Durham County voters, our commissioners and industry partners' support for education and providing crucial employers in our community with the employees they need,” Allam said. “Life sciences is a growing field and we want to make sure Durham is providing the necessary talent by educating our community college students in state-of-the-art facilities.”

Novo Nordisk: A Long-Term Partner in Talent Development

Novo Nordisk, which operates a major manufacturing presence in North Carolina, has been investing in local workforce development for more than three decades. With its $6 million donation and continued collaboration, the company is helping shape the future of biotechnology training in the region.

“The Novo Nordisk Life Sciences Center is a testament to our dedication to fostering a strong and diverse talent pipeline here,” said Shaylah Nunn Jones, director of public affairs and communication for Novo Nordisk. “By collaborating with Durham Tech, we are not only creating pathways to innovative careers in biotechnology but also empowering students from all backgrounds to thrive in a rapidly advancing industry.”

As part of its broader support, Novo Nordisk will continue to contribute to faculty development through a professor-in-residence program, as well as apprenticeships, internships, scholarships, and the purchase of biotech training equipment.

A Strategic Response to Industry Growth

North Carolina’s biotechnology sector has grown 30% since 2018, with more than 840 life sciences companies now operating in the state. The Life Sciences Center is part of a strategic effort to ensure local talent can meet the evolving needs of this rapidly expanding industry.

With groundbreaking now complete, the project enters the construction phase with eyes on a 2026 opening. Once operational, the center is expected to significantly boost local access to high-wage, high-skill careers in biotechnology and related fields.

For students in South Durham and beyond, this means a clearer path from classroom to career - and for companies like Novo Nordisk, it means a more resilient, well-prepared, and local workforce.

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