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Optics Technology Certificate

Offered at: Boulder County

 

The number of increasing optical technology-based products has created a huge demand for skilled optics technicians. That’s why Front Range Community College offers an Optics Technology Certificate that can be completed in just two semesters.

In this optics program, you’ll receive an overview of the fundamentals of optics systems, equipment and electronic instruments. Upon completion, you’ll be prepared to begin a unique career in the optical technology field.

Optics Technology

29 credits
(2 semesters)

This Optics Technology certificate prepares students for entry-level positions in the optics manufacturing industry. You will learn about optical engineering drawings/prints, lean manufacturing, statistical process control, and geometric dimensioning and tolerancing for optics. You will focus on the unique practices and toolsets within each, as well as prepare for working in laboratory and cleanroom environments.

Optics Technology certificate: See required courses and descriptions.

Offered at Boulder County Campus only.

 

What You Will Learn

Upon completion of the Optics Technology certificates program students will be able to:

  1. Demonstrate an understanding of the nature and properties of light and lasers using basic geometric and physical optics. 
  2. Demonstrate safe and proper handling and operation of optical components and test equipment.
  3. Use tools and techniques to measure optical system parameters; collect, organize, and interpret data to draw proper conclusions.
  4. Define and document the design intent using prints and the interpretation of tolerancing symbols.
  5. Understand, build and learn about electronics and electronic instrumentation as they apply to optics and photonics systems.
  6. Define and demonstrate optics manufacturing, fabrication, quality testing, and troubleshooting techniques with and without thin film coatings.
  7. Explain how efficient manufacturing processes affect optics manufacturing.
  8. Apply written and verbal communication skills to effectively execute work instructions and report information.
  9. Demonstrate optical alignment, build, and test of optical systems. 
  10. Understand and practice safe use of light sources, including lasers.  

What Does an Optics Technician Do?

Optics technicians fabricate, assemble or install optical instruments, such as telescopes, microscopes, aerial cameras and eyeglasses. You will produce precision spherical and plane optics to specifications, correct lens/prism surfaces and fabricate optics for multiple uses. With these specialized skills you will be in demand to work as laser, electronics or optics technician

Optics Technician Salaries

Jobs Entry Average Experienced
Non-Destructive Testing Specialist

$39,663
$63,586
$75,548
Electronics Engineering Technician

$51,266
$71,856
$82,152
Photonics Technician    

$39,663
$63,586
$75,548
Colorado Dept. of Labor & Employment (2018)

Center for Integrated Manufacturing

Our Optics Technology program is offered at FRCC’s new, state-of-the-art Center for Integrated Manufacturing, located in Longmont, Colorado, near our Boulder County Campus.

 

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