The Difference Being Made at RVCC
Amid the recent high-profile launch events for NJBioFutures—a dynamic and inspiring public-private workforce development coalition designed to strengthen the life sciences talent pipeline in New Jersey—stood a high school student, a coach, and an administrator, all from the Bound Brook School District.
The student, Josue Martinez, is both a member of the Bound Brook High School Class of 2025 and a first-generation college student at Raritan Valley Community College. He’s also an emerging “public speaker” and last month, his remarks were bookended by remarks from New Jersey First Lady, Tammy Murphy, and Johnson & Johnson Chairman and CEO, Joaquin Duato.
Josue was selected to speak at these VIP events because he was ready. He arrived in the United States from El Salvador with his mother and sister, determined to build a brighter future. Through hard work and dedication, he’s persevered through life’s challenges and has risen to the top 5% of his class, all while holding down a part-time job and anchoring the “O-line” as offensive center for the 2024-25 Bound Brook High School “Crusaders.”
“I never imagined I’d have the chance to break into the biopharma industry,” said Josue. But good things happen to good people, especially if they are determined.
“I met Josue two years ago when he started playing football,” said David LePoidevin, Jr., Head Football Coach and Career Liaison consultant for Bound School District. “It was his first time ever playing the sport but what the coaches and I realized quickly was his willingness to learn and work hard. He quickly became a student of the game. He studied film and spent extra time on the field after practice preparing.”
William David Ross, Director of Data, Planning, Research and Evaluation, Bound Brook School District, added, “Josue is a special young man and it has been my distinct pleasure to help him consider all the options he has in front of him. But the new aseptic processing program at Raritan Valley Community College just seemed to catch his attention.”
“Successfully earning my first certificate in GMP Professional Training at RVCC has given me the confidence and foundational skills to pursue this growing field,” said Josue. “With each certification, I am building the knowledge and experience needed to secure a rewarding career in biopharma. This program is paving the way for my future, and I’m grateful for the support and training that will help me succeed.”
It should be no surprise that Josue’s formal remarks included acknowledging his two mentors at Bound Brook High School. His kindness and warmth reflect his deep appreciation for life and the people around him.
“I was introduced to this incredible STEM program at Raritan Valley Community College through Mr. Ross and Coach LePoidevin,” said Josue. “And I am grateful because it has completely changed my career path.”
###
February 25, 2025
Media contact: Donna Stolzer, 908-526-1200, ext. 8383
