MBL Friday Evening Lecture Series: “Changing the Complexion of the Life Sciences” – Kenneth Turner

Lecture Abstract:
The life sciences is the sector ready for the moment we’re in. The life sciences remain a major economic and workforce driver for Massachusetts. But until recently, you’d be hard pressed for people to recognize names like Moderna, ThermoFisher, or the role an MBI plays in Worcester or LabCentral in Cambridge. The COVID-19 vaccine has literally and figuratively given our society a shot in the arm about the impact of the life sciences. Yet, we have companies across all sectors experiencing a crisis in finding talent. The future of work and demographic shifts adds significant layers of opportunities and challenges to this. The life sciences is positioned to meet these converging forces perfectly. Our key priority must be to meet the clarion call to continue to engage young women and men of color early on in STEM and the opportunities it can offer, to capture their interest and curiosity. Then supporting them through middle school, high school, and college, and preparing them for a career that they deserve opportunity in. For Turner, it comes down to role models. People need to envision themselves in any job or career, STEM or otherwise. Young people of color need to see scientists, engineers, chemists, and data scientists who look like them. This requires a paradigm shift and thinking differently and acting boldly. Turner will discuss his background in service to our nation and his success in the private and public sectors. He will also provide an overview on how we can take the current state of play and change the complexion of the life sciences—the critical component of Massachusetts remaining the global leader in this space.

Kenneth Turner is President and CEO of the Massachusetts Life Sciences Center (MLSC), an economic development and investment agency dedicated to supporting the growth and development of the life sciences in Massachusetts. He directs and oversees the center’s operations, investment strategy, programs, and partnerships. Prior to joining the MLSC, Turner served as Director of Diversity & Inclusion/Compliance with Massport. He oversaw and managed the Authority’s multiple diversity programs, including business and supplier diversity, workforce diversity, and airport concessions, as well as all compliance initiatives associated with Massport’s Disadvantaged/Minority/Women Business Enterprise programs. Previously, Turner served as Deputy Secretary for Administration & Finance for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Department of Veterans’ Services. He has over 20 years of general management and executive experience in various Fortune 100 media and package goods companies including having served as Senior Vice President of Emerging Markets at AOL Time Warner as well as having held various marketing positions at Hallmark Cards and Hasbro Toys. A retired U.S. Navy Captain and submarine nuclear weapons system officer with 26-years of service, Turner holds a B.S. degree from Southern University and A&M College, Baton Rouge, LA.