Where Learning Drives Impact: Apprentices on the Front Lines of Innovation
Across AstraZeneca, apprenticeships accelerate talent development and shape a future-ready workforce. In the US, our apprenticeship journey is growing alongside our expanding footprint across the country.
Spanning laboratory and manufacturing roles, these programs combine on-the-job training with structured learning and mentorship, supporting early talent and employees in building the skills needed to achieve our 2030 ambitions.
By investing in people and helping them build cutting-edge skills, we’re increasing science, technology and advanced manufacturing talent to power our pipeline and US operations. Together, these programs also help create jobs, accelerate local economic impact, and build a resilient, innovation‑led workforce that delivers for patients and society.
Get to know Jeffery, Malachi and Margareth, apprentices turning hands-on learning into real impact. Go behind the scenes of their AstraZeneca journeys.
1. What led you to join AstraZeneca’s apprenticeship program, and what interested you most about the opportunity?
Jeffery Taylor, Maintenance Mechanic Apprentice, Newark, DE
After more than 6 years as a compression operator in Formulation, I saw a post for Facilities Mechanic Apprentice Program on our employee job board and applied. I have always enjoyed using tools and the satisfaction you get from fixing something yourself. The New Castle County Vocational Training (NCCVT) Apprenticeship Program teaches you everything you need to begin a career as a mechanic and prepares you for the real world of work you will face in that career.
Malachi Reid, Laboratory Sciences Apprentice, Gaithersburg, MD
I discovered AstraZeneca's Manufacturing Sciences Apprenticeship through my interest in biotechnology after a career-ending baseball injury forced me to redirect myself into new opportunities. As one of the first apprentices placed in the program -, developed in partnership with Montgomery College - I was given a great opportunity to both work and learn. What excited me most was the chance to work hands-on in biopharmaceutical manufacturing at the Gaithersburg Pilot Facility while simultaneously earning my Associate's Degree in Biotechnology.
Margareth Mbea, Quality Control Technician Apprentice, Gaithersburg, MD
After graduating with my BS in Chemistry, I knew that I wanted to find opportunities that would allow me to apply my academic background in a real-world industry setting. My degree focused on exposing me to analytical testing techniques used in the research world, which I connected with quality control. What attracted me the most to the Quality Control Apprenticeship Program was primarily AstraZeneca’s clear commitment to pharmaceutical innovation and patient safety.
2. Can you describe the work you’re doing in your apprenticeship? What skills are you developing, and how is the experience helping you grow professionally and personally?
Jeffery Taylor
I perform tasks and complete work orders on every system needed to run the AstraZeneca plant. I am sharpening my skills and knowledge of pumps and motors, bearings, seals, gaskets and all the tools needed to keep this plant running. I learn about them in school, then use them at work. It's an amazing way to retain the information you learn every day.
Malachi Reid
As an apprentice within the Upstream and Support Services group, I support three departments in their daily operations. On the technical side, I'm developing skills in cell culture and fed-batch operations. I'm also building automation capabilities using Python, Excel and Smartsheet to streamline processes such as employee timekeeping, correction alert systems, and training documentation. Professionally, this experience strengthens my leadership and cross-functional collaboration. Personally, it's building greater self-discipline, sharper problem-solving skills, and growing my confidence that I can make meaningful contributions.
Margareth Mbea
In my apprenticeship, I support environmental monitoring and utility sampling to ensure compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards. In my day-to-day, I collect air, gas, water and surface samples as well as routine lab maintenance. Additionally, I contribute to Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) editing and controlled document updates to improve clarity and compliance. Through this role, I’ve developed strong technical skills in GMP practices and documentation, along with attention to detail and accountability. Personally, this experience has built my confidence and discipline, showing me that I can adapt quickly, take initiative, and contribute meaningfully to work that directly supports patient safety.
3. How has the apprenticeship helped you explore different roles or career paths and gain experience with new technologies or tools?
Jeffery Taylor
The NCCVT Apprenticeship Program has helped me shape my career here at AstraZeneca in the Facilities Maintenance department. It has given me a path to gather the skills needed for the job and given my managers faith in my ability to do the job. Every day is a new learning experience, and I love it.
Malachi Reid
This apprenticeship has given me a broader view of how Manufacturing Sciences contributes to biopharmaceutical production. Working across multiple areas of the facility, I've gained firsthand experience in buffer and media preparation, aseptic techniques, and using programming languages such as Python to automate processes. I've also developed technical skills in data analysis tools like Power Query and data visualization software. This cross departmental exposure has shown me the variety of career paths available from process sciences to operational excellence to digital transformation - and helped me identify directions aligned with my long-term goals.
Margareth Mbea
The program has given me valuable exposure to different functions in Quality and the broader pharmaceutical environment, helping me better understand potential careers in areas like analytical testing, compliance and clinical research. Through hands-on experience, I’ve worked in lab systems such as digital quality software, increasing my adaptability to new technologies.
4. What advice would you give someone considering an apprenticeship as a way to grow their career or enter the industry?
Jeffery Taylor
I would highly recommend an Apprenticeship program to anyone eager to become a mechanic. The way they blend On-the-Job Training (OJT) with book learning is a great way for the knowledge to stick. I feel comfortable and confident in my abilities, and I have an entire team of co-workers and mentors eager and willing to show me or help me out when needed.
Malachi Reid
An apprenticeship allows you to gain practical skills, earn credentials, and demonstrate your value, all before completing a degree. The individuals who thrive in apprenticeships are those who treat every assignment as an opportunity to grow. Your background doesn't dictate your ceiling, your work ethic determines your success.
Margareth Mbea
Be willing to step outside your comfort zone and actively build relationships, not only within your immediate team, but across the wider organization. Seek out projects, skills, and connections that align with the career you want to build. The more you invest in your growth, the more an apprenticeship program will give back to you.