Optica Foundation recognizes potential in photonics technicians through new scholarship to propel workforce
About Optica
16 January 2024
Optica Foundation recognizes potential in photonics technicians through new scholarship to propel workforce
WASHINGTON - The global photonics market, projected to reach roughly US$800B by 2025, is not just driving technological advancements but is also creating a surge in demand for skilled technicians. Recognizing this need, the Optica Foundation’s Board of Directors initiated a scholarship for talented individuals to make their mark in an industry shaping the future of digital communication, healthcare, and sustainable energy.
“We envision this scholarship providing the tools and training to prepare tomorrow’s fiber optics and integrated photonics technicians. There will be so many opportunities for careers in photonics, and we want to play a large role in ensuring that we meet the need to grow our industry,” said Rick Plympton, CEO of Optimax Systems Inc., USA, and member of the foundation’s board of directors.
The US$5,000 scholarship was awarded to 17 students from 15 colleges in the US and Canada to help these talented individuals complete their college education and join the photonics workforce. This program complements the foundation’s portfolio of other scholarships, all focused on ensuring optics and photonics is the field of choice for talented young scientists around the globe. Providing support helps to attract and retain promising students who want to pursue a career as a photonics technician.
“There is an urgent need for photonics technicians today as the field continues to grow, said Amy Eskilson, CEO of Inrad Optics, USA.“To sustain projected industry growth by the end of the decade, it is critical that we increase the workforce to meet the demands of the photonics industry.”
This year’s recipients include:
- Bradley Austin, Central Carolina Community College, USA
- Abdelrahman Babiker, Monroe Community College, USA
- Jonathan Boufford, Keene State College, USA
- Halle Burke, Front Range Community College, USA*
- Soojin Cha, Pasadena City College, USA
- Dylan Crabtree, Niagara College, Canada
- Samuel Dodson, Indian River State College, USA
- Adam Kushner, Valencia College, USA
- Karma Lama, Quinsigamond Community College, USA
- Tyler Miller, Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, USA
- Katherine Mullins, Valencia College, USA
- Peter Preston, Springfield Technical Community College, USA
- Brandon Roth, Gallatin College, USA
- Daniel Stovalosky, Front Range Community College, USA*
- Victoria Taylor, Stonehill College, USA
- James Vrenick, Iowa Western Community College, USA
- Samuel Ward, Indian Hills Community College, USA
*Two scholars were recognized at Front Range Community College (FRCC) thanks to the FRCC Foundation’s match program.
To learn more about this scholarship and the recipients, please visit optica.org/TechnicianScholarship
Optica Foundation
Established in 2002, the Optica Foundation carries out charitable activities in support of the society’s student and early career members. We cultivate the next generation of leaders and innovators as they navigate advanced degree programs and become active members of research, engineering and business communities worldwide. The foundation also works to secure the endowments for Optica’s awards and honors programs. The foundation is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit. For more information, visit optica.org/foundation.
About Optica
Optica, Advancing Optics and Photonics Worldwide, is the society dedicated to promoting the generation, application, archiving and dissemination of knowledge in the field. Founded in 1916, it is the leading organization for scientists, engineers, business professionals, students and others interested in the science of light. Optica's renowned publications, meetings, online resources and in-person activities fuel discoveries, shape real-life applications and accelerate scientific, technical and educational achievement. Discover more at: Optica.org
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