Certified Fiber Optics Technician Course (CFOT)
This introductory 3-day fiber optics course is offered by UCF Continuing Education. It is designed for anyone interested in learning basic fiber optic networking. This program combines theory and 75% hands-on activities to prepare the student to take the CFOT (Certified Fiber Optics Technician) test that is sanctioned by the FOA (Fiber Optics Association) and given and graded the final class day. This course also introduces the student to industry standards governing FTTD (Fiber To The Desk), FTTH (Fiber To The Home, LAN/WAN fiber networks, and further introduces the student to basic fusion and mechanical splicing. Students will learn how to identify fiber types, recognize various connectors used in fiber installation; and install, terminate, splice, and properly test installed fiber cable to existing standards. This program explores the history and future of fiber optics and fiber optics capabilities, and cost of installation. Standards covered: NECA/FOA-301-2004, EIA/TIA 568-B.3, ANSI/TIA/EIA 607-A, and NEC Article 770-50, anyone interested in becoming a Certified Fiber Optics Technician should attend this class.
Upon successful completion, this program is recognized for BICSI Continuing Education Credits (CECs): RDDD 21, OSP 21, INST 15, TECH 18, Cert. Trainer 21.
Course Objective: Program prepares the student to take the CFOT (Certified Fiber Optics Technician) exam given and graded at the end of class. Student will be able to effectively and efficiently install, terminate, and test multimode/singlemode fiber optic networks.
For full program information, please visit
http://www.ce.ucf.edu/Program-Search/1278/Certified-Fiber-Optics-Technician/
Technician Training -- UCF Continuting Education
The UCF Department of Continuing Education, working with Workforce Central Florida, has developed an online set of courses plus a hands-on lab course that will lead to a Photonics Technician Certificate for successful completers of the courses. For a limited number of applicants who are currently unemployed, there will be no cost for the program. For full information on the program, contact Maria Cherjovsky, (407)882-0247, mariac@mail.ucf.edu.
Technician Certification
The Florida Photonics Cluster is working with CREOL, The College of Optics & Photonics and several other supporting partners to develop a certification process and program for Photonics Technicians and for Precision Optics Technicians. For information on this program and to participate in it, contact Dr. James Pearson, (407)823-6858, jpearson@creol.ucf.edu.
Valencia Community College
(Valencia) is a leader in providing over 100 Associate in Science Degrees and Certificate Programs meeting the ever-changing workforce needs of Central Florida.
Valencia's West Campus offers a state recognized technical certificate program in Lasers and Photonics Technology designed to prepare students for immediate placement in the Optics and Photonics industries. Students are also encouraged to pursue an Associate Degree in Electronics Engineering Technology with specialization in Laser and Photonics program at Valencia Community College, which is designed to produce highly skilled technicians capable of assisting in design, operation, and servicing optics, photonics, and lasers systems and equipment.. The program has created an environment to enhanced and accelerated knowledge transfer between Valencia and industry. The relationships developed with the local and district business and industry has facilitated increased student recruiting and internship opportunities.
For further information, please visit http://valenciacc.edu/asdegrees/engineering/eet.cfm
techPATH – Photonics
Recognizing the need for a high tech workforce, the Florida High Tech Corridor Council (FHTCC) established as one of its educational initiatives - techPATH. Involving representatives from a variety of educational affiliations and high tech companies, techPATH is "cultivating tomorrow's workforce" through a variety of innovative programs including techCAMPs, which are free one- or two-day high tech workshops offered to middle and high school educators to provide them with the knowledge and tools necessary to guide students in their pursuit of high tech careers. The FPC is working with the FHTCC, UCF, and Valencia Community College to develop a Photonics techPATH program. http://www.floridahightech.com/initiatives/techPath.html
Indian River State College
(IRSC) offers programs in lasers, fiber-optics, robotics, automation, wireless networks, biomedical equipment, space exploration, and modern electric power generation – all cutting-edge technologies made possible by electronic engineering. The Electronics Engineering Technology degree offers specialization options in lasers and photonics, robotics and industrial automation, power plant technology, computer technology, and telecommunications. All classes are taught at the Kight Center for Emerging Technologies, with state-of-the-art equipment and instrumentation.
For further information on the IRSC degree program, contact the Electronics Engineering Department at (772) 462-7621, email us at cpanayio@irsc.edu, or visit us on the web at www.irsc.edu under Programs and Careers.
Other Resources
The international optical societies, particularly SPIE and OSA, provide a directory of programs. SPIE has a searchable directory on the web at www.opticseducation.org
Members of the Florida Photonics Cluster also participate in local community outreach programs such as American Education Week's Teach-In, that inform middle and high-school students about the importance of math and science and career opportunities in technology fields, including photonics. Materials are posted here as shared resources for educators and other members. Please contact the FPC if you are an educator or community leader that feels their classroom or organization might benefit from our involvement:
