CT State Proposes Optics Programs in Norwalk to Address Manufacturing Workforce Needs

Connecticut State Community College is proposing two new programs at its Norwalk campus to train workers to manufacture and inspect precision optical components used in industries including semiconductor production, aerospace and healthcare.

The proposed associate degree and certificate in optics technology would begin in spring 2027, according to documents submitted to the Connecticut Board of Regents for Higher Education.

The Board of Regents was scheduled to discuss the programs at its 10 a.m. meeting on Thursday.

The college says the programs would help address a shortage of skilled optics technicians in Connecticut and New England, where manufacturers rely on precision lenses and other components that control or measure light.

The application identifies ASML, Zygo Corp., Aperture Optical Sciences and Danbury Mission Technologies as regional employers with workforce needs. It also reports interest from local optics companies in training their existing employees.

Students would learn skills including grinding and polishing optical components, applying coatings, assembling optical systems and using specialized equipment to test their accuracy. The training would also cover operating and troubleshooting manufacturing equipment.

The associate degree would take two years and require 62 to 63 credits, while the one-year certificate would require 29 credits. Both would combine classroom instruction with hands-on training.

Potential jobs include optics technician, optical manufacturing specialist, quality assurance technician and optical inspection technician, according to the application.

The college says industry partners helped develop the curriculum and recommended equipment and course content. Portions of the training have already been offered through a noncredit certificate, according to supporting budget documents.

Equipment and materials would be supported through college funds, federal Perkins career and technical education funding and potential additional sources.

Southern Connecticut State University would also support the program through work involving the production and testing of optical materials, according to the application.

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