Optics Technology 2023

The Optics Technology Pathway Project, led by Sussex County Community College (SCCC), is strengthening New Jersey’s optics manufacturing workforce through a comprehensive, scalable model that spans high school, college, and adult education. The program offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Optics Technology as well as stackable certificates in CNC, Metrology, and Conventional Optics Technology.

Key accomplishments include the creation of dual enrollment partnerships with local high schools, expanded professional development for STEM educators, and a redesigned Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) process that accelerates degree attainment for working professionals. With growing interest from regional education and industry partners, SCCC has engaged more than 100 students in its Fundamentals of Optics I course, while also launching pathways through community-based organizations such as Project Self-Sufficiency.

A $1.2 million capital investment from the State of New Jersey is enabling the expansion of SCCC’s Optics Technology Center, helping to meet workforce demands from employers like Thorlabs, Esco Optics, and Special Optics. Articulation agreements with institutions including Adelphi University, RIT, and the University of Arizona are also underway, creating clearer transfer pathways. Together, these efforts are creating a sustainable workforce pipeline into one of New Jersey’s most advanced and growing industries.