A high-ranking researcher for South Africa’s Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) will be touring Central New Mexico Community College’s “photonics” facilities and researching the program, which is considered a national leader for training laser technicians.
Dr. Andrew Forbes, a laser researcher for the CSIR National Laser Centre in South Africa, will be visiting CNM’s Main Campus photonics facilities and meeting with CNM representatives today to learn more about the program. The agency is interested in using CNM’s program as a model to implement a similar training program in South Africa to boost the country’s ability to attract laser technology industries.
Eight years ago, CNM became the first college in the country to offer an accredited associate’s of applied science degree in photonics, which trains students in the use of laser and fiber-optics technology that can be applied in a growing variety of industries locally and around the country. CNM also offers a certificate program in photonics.
CNM photonics graduates are in high demand locally and find quality employment at organizations such as Sandia National Laboratories, AgilOptics, Boeing, CVI Laser and TruTouch Technologies.
“In the industry, we’re nationally recognized and we have quite a reputation for delivering a premier training program,” said Gordon Bennett, chair of CNM’s photonics program. “If somebody wants to get into a good-paying career in a clean, environmentally friendly technology with abundant opportunities for employment locally and all over the planet, this field provides a great opportunity for them.”
