In 2021, Sussex County Community College (SCCC) marked a significant milestone in optics education, becoming the nation's first community college to partner with The American Center for Optics Manufacturing (AmeriCOM). This partnership, part of AmeriCOM's nationwide initiative supported by the Department of Defense, enhances educational opportunities in Optics Technology. AmeriCOM has subcontracted with SCCC, providing up to $2 million to expand the College's Optics Technology program. This funding will establish a state-of-the-art lab, distance learning courses, and dual-credit programs with regional high schools.
SCCC's Optics Technology Program expansion includes a substantial investment supported by a State Bond Act grant. This $862,500 grant, part of Round Two of the Securing Our Children’s Future State Bond Act, will fund a 2,500-square-foot expansion of the Optics Technology Center on SCCC's main campus in Newton. The total project cost is $1,150,000, enhancing the program's capacity to train future optics professionals with advanced technology and machinery.
“This expansion represents a transformative step forward for the Optics Technology Program at SCCC,” said Jack Stafford, Optics Technology Program Supervisor. “By investing in cutting-edge facilities, we are creating a dynamic learning environment that will equip students with the skills needed to excel in the rapidly evolving optics industry, ensuring that our students are not only prepared for the workforce but also positioned to drive innovation in optics manufacturing.”
SCCC's Optics Technology Program students benefit from hands-on experience and theoretical knowledge in precision optical components fabrication. Graduates are well-positioned for employment opportunities with major optics manufacturing companies, including local industry leader Thorlabs, based in Newton, NJ.
“We are excited to see the success of the Optics Technology program at Sussex County Community College, resulting in the expansion of the Optics Center,” commented Jamie LaCouture, ESG and Communications Manager, Thorlabs. “The technicians that SCCC trains and graduates are an asset to our community and the field of optics alike. The program gives companies like Thorlabs the benefit of hiring individuals with hands-on experience and working knowledge from day one – a valuable leg up for the business. This expansion will allow SCCC to grow its competencies, reach, and address the needs of many companies in the optics industry for years to come.”
"The optics field is rapidly expanding, and SCCC is at the forefront of education and training," remarked Jason Fruge, Dean of Occupation programs at SCCC. "Our partnerships with Thorlabs and AmeriCOM, coupled with significant investments in our facilities, underscore our commitment to preparing students for successful careers in optics."
SCCC held a groundbreaking ceremony last year to kick off its expanded Optics Technology Center, which is planned for completion in October 2025. The program, which was initially launched in partnership with Thorlabs, is now fully integrated into SCCC's main campus. It has seen increasing student enrollment and expanded curriculum offerings.
For more information about SCCC's Optics Technology Program, visit sussex.edu/optics.
Picture #1: The new Optics Center exterior renderings from HQW Architects.
Picture #2: The Optics Center interior rendering.
