The Northwest Biotech Initiative (NWBI) provides a platform that encourages knowledge sharing and dialogue between young students, local and international businesses and industry experts. We promote the development of early stage researchers in the STEM fields by providing an inclusive space for fostering relationships between academia and the growing local biotech sector. This provides students the power of choice; to choose a career path based on interest and passion and not due to a lack of skills or opportunities. Thus, students will be prepared to apply in-demand professional skills in any arena and sector they choose to pursue in life beyond their academic institutions.