Abstract

Precision optics manufacturing companies across the U.S. are suffering from a critical shortage of technicians. This shortage impacts supply chain, delays shipments, and impedes the productivity of any industry reliant on optics. Further, it stifles innovation and requires engineers with advanced degrees to complete the work of technicians. Development of the current and next-generation optics manufacturing workforce is vital.

Monroe Community College (MCC) in Rochester, NY offered the nation's first Optical Systems Technology program. By collaborating with industry, community, and governmental partners, MCC grew the program over several decades to a record-high graduating class today. Unfortunately, MCC alone cannot meet the demand for optics technicians with 500 new graduates needed every year just in the Western NY region.

The U.S. Department of Defense sees this critical workforce shortage as a threat to national security and charged the American Center for Optics Manufacturing – AmeriCOM – to increase the number of optics technicians. Recognizing the success of connecting industry, community, and governmental partners with an optics-focused academic institution, AmeriCOM is replicating this “ecosystem” model in regions across the country.

The initiative has: 1) Extensively enhanced precision optics technician training with innovative approaches that meet the needs of the optics industry and students; 2) Increased the number and diversity of optics technicians nationwide; and 3) Established opportunities for student and faculty engagement with the optics industry. This paper describes the success of MCC’s optics ecosystem model and illustrates why AmeriCOM is replicating it nationally to strengthen the nation’s precision optics workforce.

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