Frequently Asked Questions
We have listed below some of most frequently asked questions about OP-TEC, photonics education and more! If you have a question not included below or covered by another page on our website, please contact us at [email protected]. We are happy to assist you!
General Questions:
What does OP-TEC stand for?
OP-TEC is actually not an acronym and is recognized as part of our official Center name which is OP-TEC, The National Center for Optics and Photonics Education.
Where is OP-TEC located?
OP-TEC is headquartered in Waco, Texas.
Is OP-TEC part of a college campus or system?
OP-TEC is an organization of the University of Central Florida that works with educational institutions, colleges, and photonics regional centers throughout the nation.
Who funds OP-TEC?
OP-TEC is a National Center of Excellence funded by the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Advanced Technological Education (ATE) program. This website and all materials developed by OP-TEC are based upon work supported by NSF under Grant Nos. DUE-0603275, DUE-1003199, DUE-1144377, and DUE-1303732. It should be noted that any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.
How do I contact OP-TEC?
OP-TEC can be contacted by phone at 254-751-9000 or by e-mail at [email protected]. The staff directory may be found at www.op-tec.org/staff. You can also click on the website tab “Contact Us” and complete the contact form.
What is OP-TEC’s address?
OP-TEC
1224 Austin Avenue, Suite 210
Waco, TX 76701-1828
Does OP-TEC have a YouTube channel?
Yes! We have a YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/user/OPTECcom.
Does OP-TEC have a Facebook account?
Yes! Please “Like” us at http://www.facebook.com/OPTECenter.
Does OP-TEC have a Twitter account?
Yes! Please “Follow” us at http://twitter.com/OPTEC_Center.
Photonics Education Questions:
How do I start a photonics technician program or course at my school?
Starting a photonics technician program or course at your school is a multi-stage project; however, OP-TEC is here to help make the process simple and efficient. The best first step to take is to contact us by completing the “Contact Us” web form, by e-mailing [email protected] or by calling 254-751-9000. Let us know about your college and that you are interested in starting a program. One of our staff members or partner colleges will contact you back ASAP to answer your questions and guide you through the entire planning process. We also have our Photonics Systems Technicians Curriculum Guide and High School Program Planning Guide available for free download on our resources website at https://www.optecresources.org.
How do I get a copy of your curriculum materials?
Complimentary review copies of our classroom curriculum materials are available to faculty, staff and administrators upon request. If you are interested in reviewing our curriculum materials, please e-mail your request to [email protected].
How many photonics employers do I have in my area?
If you are interested in knowing how many photonics employers are in your service area(s), OP-TEC can assist you in conducting an employer needs assessment survey. To inquire about the survey process, please complete the “Contact Us” web form, contact [email protected] or call 254-751-9000.
Does OP-TEC offer student scholarships or grants?
OP-TEC does not currently offer student scholarships or grants. We encourage students to visit the websites of our college partners to determine what scholarships, grants and/or financial aid may be available.
