News Summary
Monika Soban, senior director at Amgen Rhode Island, will be honored at the 2025 Business Women Awards for her exceptional contributions to STEM. With a focus on mentorship and diversity, Soban enhances biotech education for students, fostering a future generation equipped for careers in science and technology. Announced on July 7, 2025, this accolade highlights her role in bridging the gap between education and industry through innovative programs.
Rhode Island
Monika Soban, a distinguished figure in biotechnology and senior director of manufacturing at Amgen Rhode Island, has been recognized as an industry leader by the 2025 Business Women Awards for her exceptional contributions to the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This prestigious accolade will be officially announced on July 7, 2025, with the application deadline for nominations now extended to July 2, 2025.
Soban’s recognition highlights her commitment to improving the technical services sector within the STEM industry, focusing on the broad implications of scientific advancements in society. As an active participant in fostering scientific literacy, she has taken significant steps to inspire future generations, particularly students interested in the biotechnology field.
Role at Amgen Rhode Island
Located along the scenic Blackstone River in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, Amgen plays a pivotal role in Soban’s outreach efforts. Soban’s leadership extends to various initiatives aimed at connecting students with professional opportunities in biotechnology. The Amgen Biotech Experience program, which began in 2007, seeks to prepare high-need high school students for careers in STEM by enabling them to connect with Amgen volunteers who share their professional journeys.
Through this innovative program, Amgen collaborates with educational institutions, including the University of Rhode Island, Brown University, MIT, and Northeastern University, to enhance the educational experience within STEM fields. Notable high schools such as Central Falls High School and Dr. Jorge Alvarez High School have partnered with Amgen to offer students insights into the biotechnology industry and promote real-world applicability of classroom concepts.
Commitment to Diversity and Mentorship
Monika Soban is passionate about supporting diversity within the biotechnology sector. Amgen actively recruits first-generation college students from underrepresented communities to fill internships, providing these students with vital hands-on experiences that can pave the way for successful careers in the industry. The company’s emphasis on networking and mentorship underscores the importance of building connections critical for professional growth in life sciences.
In addition to providing internships, Amgen is dedicated to sustainability and minimizing its environmental impact. This corporate responsibility aligns with the emerging workforce’s expectations, focusing on addressing environmental and social responsibilities. Soban’s leadership is directed not only towards the advancement of biotechnology but also towards instilling a deep appreciation for environmental issues among future leaders in the industry.
Advice for Aspiring Professionals
To prepare for careers in STEM, Soban encourages students to pursue hands-on experiences through internships and actively engage in professional networking activities. She emphasizes that understanding the dynamics and roles within a company is essential for career advancement. The interactive learning opportunities afforded by internships, combined with real-world problem-solving experiences, can significantly enhance a student’s education and career trajectory.
Conclusion
Monika Soban’s recognition at the upcoming Business Women Awards serves as a testament to her significant contributions and lifelong commitment to furthering STEM education and workforce development. Through partnerships with academic institutions, community outreach programs, and a dedication to diversity and mentorship, Soban is paving the way for future leaders in biotechnology, assuring that scientific innovation continues to be a driving force in society.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Providence Business News: Monika Soban Empowered to be Exceptional
- Wikipedia: Biotechnology
- Providence Business News: STEM Pathways to Biotech Careers
- Google Search: STEM education
- Providence Business News: Why Diversity Matters
- Google Scholar: diversity in biotechnology
- Warwick Online: Mentor RI Welcomes New Board Members
- Encyclopedia Britannica: biotechnology education
- Providence Business News: R.I.S.E Women’s Leadership Conference Honorees
- Google News: women leadership
