Abstract

The demand for precision and efficiency is changing the way manufacturers are utilizing photonic and electro-optical technologies. This new demand has created a need for more specially trained operators than our post-secondary programs can supply.

An overlooked resource for solving industries personnel problems is the local tech prep high school. These programs already have (1) life-long learning, (2) making technology accessible, and (3) transition from school to work as goals. Tech prep schools already have 75% of the needed equipment in their electronic, computer and technology labs. Add the missing laser labs and you can start a Laser Electro-Optical Technician training program at the secondary level. This arrangement also makes it possible to launch a customized training program available to local industries to place LEOT's in their workforce in just 16 weeks.

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