Photonics Program Renamed: LASER AND FIBER OPTIC TECHNOLOGY

After nearly 10 years as Photonics Engineering Technology, Three Rivers’ two-year associate degree program has been renamed: Laser and Fiber Optic Technology, or LFOT. According to Division Director for Technology Programs, Anthony Benoit, “[The word] photonics remains in use among those familiar with the industry, but has not been well recognized by high school students, their parents, or high school teachers.” He added, “The new name is more descriptive of the technology studied by students in the program.”

Laser and Fiber Optic Technology was recommended over several possible names considered by the photonics program’s Industry Advisory Committee. A survey conducted at Ellis Technical High School in Danielson, Conn. found strong support among high school students for LFOT. The name was approved by the Board of Trustees for the Community Technical Colleges at their June 2006 meeting.

According to the New England Board of Higher Education, which supports photonics education nationwide through faculty professional development, “Photonics, described as the practical application of light and optics, is one of the most pervasive new technologies of the twenty-first century. … As photonics technology continues to weave itself throughout the fabric of our economy, the demand for highly skilled photonics technicians will continue to grow as well.”

Since the first graduating class in 1999, graduates of the Three Rivers photonics program have been in demand at photonics-related industries throughout southern New England.

January 2007