Description

This booklet examines the lives and careers of 10 exemplary photonics technicians.

​These technicians were all educated in two year associate degree programs at U.S. community and technical colleges. After completing high school they chose to go to work in a job requiring low knowledge/skills, or they entered higher education in an unrelated field; frequently in a major that did not prepare them for a career. Through a variety of experiences these adults learned about photonics and decided to return to college and prepare to become photonics (laser/optics) technicians. They discovered that rewarding careers in lasers and optics were available for hands-on learners who complete these college programs. In college they found the technical courses interesting and achievable. When they completed their coursework they had multiple job offers that paid good salaries. They are now employed in interesting, well-paying jobs, with unlimited career opportunities.

Recommended use
advisors, EET faculty, college administrators