The National Precision Optics Skill Standards for Technicians

Precision Optics

A New OP-TEC Initiative for Precision Optics Technicians

OP-TEC is pleased to announce the receipt of a supplemental grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) to explore the need and feasibility for a national, multi-year project to initiate college programs to educate Precision Optics Technicians. 

Background:

Precision Optics Technicians (POTs) create and test optical (infrared, visible and ultraviolet) components that are used in lasers and sophisticated electro-optical systems for defense, homeland security, aerospace, biomedical equipment, digital displays, controlled nuclear fusion and nanotechnology. POTs also integrate precision optical components into these electro-optical systems and maintain them.

Precision Optics Technician Shortage:

There is a forecasted shortage of POTs that could require our country to outsource this work to foreign nations— a situation that would compromise our nation’s security and sacrifice a vital sector of future economic development.

Contributing Factors:

1) Loss of experienced POTs in the United States
2) Only a few colleges created programs in Optical Fabrication
3) No known educational programs in two-year colleges still prepare new POTs
4) Precision Optics education/training is much more than just a “craft worker apprenticeship” experience
5) United States military, defense and homeland security rely on a domestic source for Precision Optics

OP-TEC Initiative:

Through funding provided by the National Science Foundation (NSF), OP-TEC will:
1)  quantify how many POTs are needed now and for the next six years;
2)  determine what knowledge and skills these technicians should possess;
3)  identify teams of colleges and employers willing to initiate educational programs to prepare POTs;
4)  design a comprehensive initiative that would encourage and support colleges to develop the capacity for preparing POTs; and,
5)  secure sufficient funding to carry out the developmental effort.

OP-TEC Precision Optics Technician Education Resources:

The National Precision Optics Skill Standards for Technicians (CORD, 2009) are now available! Download a free copy today!
OP-TEC has released The National Precision Optics Skill Standards for Technicians. Please click here to for more information, to download a free copy of the standards or to request a complimentary bound copy!

Download the Precision Optics Initiative Information Brochure!
Click here to download the Information brochure (PDF file) about OP-TEC’s Precision Optics Initiative!

Contact OP-TEC!
Please contact us to support this critical initiative or to request more information! Click here to e-mail us now!