NEW LASER MANUFACTURING PROGRAM AT THREE RIVERS COMMUNITY COLLEGE
TRCC will soon be offering Connecticut’s first associate degree specializing in laser manufacturing, thanks to a new option to the college’s Manufacturing Engineering Technology program. The option was approved by the Board of Trustees at their July meeting, and is part of Three Rivers’ continuing update of its programs as it readies for a move into new, state-of -the-art facilities in 2008. Anthony Benoit, Director of Engineering Technology, commented, "this laser option to the associate degree in Manufacturing Engineering Technology is an important development in providing southeastern Connecticut manufacturing companies with graduates trained in the latest technologies and methods of application. Manufacturing in Connecticut remains a flexible, dynamic segment of the economy. But it’s cleaner and requires more knowledge and creativity than ever before. This program will give students the knowledge and experience they need to succeed in manufacturing when they graduate and for years after."
“The job outlook for graduates with skills in manufacturing and in lasers is phenomenal,” said Judy Donnelly, coordinator of the Laser and Fiber Optic Technology associate degree program at the college.
As lasers become commonplace in the manufacturing environment, technicians require new knowledge and skills to effectively use laser tools. The new program curriculum is based on a comprehensive survey of manufacturing firms in Southern New England that use or build lasers and laser systems, conducted by the Regional Center for Next Generation manufacturing. The National Science Foundation-supported Center has provided additional support to Three Rivers’ laser manufacturing initiative, including faculty support for course development and the purchase of an Epilog large format laser engraver, used in the college’s Computer Controlled Laser Manufacturing course. Students conduct experiments with the engraver to study the effects of laser power, speed, and optics on a variety of materials.
According to Karen Wosczyna Birch, Executive Director of the CT Community College’s Regional Center for Next Generation Manufacturing, “The new laser manufacturing program at Three Rivers CC is a model program that the NSF Regional Center for Next Generation Manufacturing is proud to support. Three Rivers CC use of industry driven curriculum is exemplary and responsive to Connecticut's manufacturing industry's need for highly skilled technicians who comprise the 21st Century Workforce. Such programs are critical to the economic stability and growth of manufacturing in New England and are a win-win for Connecticut's industry and as well as our community colleges.”
The laser manufacturing curriculum is an interdisciplinary effort undertaken by Three Rivers’ manufacturing, electronics and photonics programs. Students who choose the laser manufacturing option will take courses in optics, laser physics, and specialized laser electronics in addition to the core program, which includes courses in manufacturing, materials, and automated controls and systems.
For more information on the Laser Manufacturing option, email Professor Knowles pknowles@trcc.commnet.edu or Professor Donnelly jdonnelly@trcc.commnet.edu
Plan of Study (Course List) for the Laser Manufacturing Option