Community Corner
Biotechnology Students Making A Difference At Coastline College
During the coronavirus pandemic, these biotech students are applying what they have learned on 3d printers with real-world applications.
COSTA MESA, CA — Coastline College Biotechnology students are putting in the work to assist those on the front lines of the coronavirus pandemic.
Students Gienel Rayos and Omar Medani, alongside the supervision of Professor Dr. Tanya Hoerer, have made it their goal to create protective masks by using Coastline College's 3D printers. They are "printing out" three-dimensional face shields for local clinics, first responders and hospitals.
The increased demand for personal protective equipment has put thousands of requests on back-order.
To help protect medical professionals and our loved ones from COVID-19, Coastline College Biotechnology department hopes to generate a sizable supply of protective gear to donate and make an immediate impact. At the same time, they need more printers and resources, a college spokesperson said.
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Currently, the program has three printers in operation but is fundraising to expand to at-home efforts. Campuses are closed, due to California Gov. Newsom's executive order.
Coastline students are applying the skills they learned in 3D printing to make personal protective equipment using designs approved and tested by the National Institute of Health.
Find out what's happening in Newport Beach-Corona Del Marfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Dr. Tanya Hoerer, Professor, Biological Science, and Allied Health, Coastline College, discussed the effort.
"The science faculty at Coastline are eager to help our local and national medical and first responder communities," she said. "We are proud to support these students as they apply the knowledge they gained in our 3D printing program to make a real impact with their skills."
They have launched a campaign through the Coastline Foundation to support the building materials, machinery, packaging, and printing. The funds will support the building materials, machinery, packaging, and printing.
Here's how you can support Coastline College students who are making an impact on the treatment of COVID-19 and help local first responders fight for our communities.
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