The manufacturing
landscape is undergoing a revolution, driven by advancements in laser
technologies and innovative materials. To stay ahead of the curve, a skilled
workforce equipped with cutting-edge knowledge and hands-on experience is
crucial. Recent Basic Research Needs Report on
Laser Technologies,
generated by the top experts in the field, at the request of the government
agencies, DoE, DoD and NSF, highlights the dire need for workforce development
in this area. The Leadership Needed Foundation (LNF), a 501(c)(3) non-profit, in
collaboration with Coherent Corp., experts from The Ohio State University,
University of Texas at Austin, Georgia Institute of Technology, Intel, and
Laser Focused Technology Corporation (LFTC), has established a specialized
workforce development initiative for HBCU/MIs and other entities.
The academic expert
partners will include Ohio State University and University of Texas at Austin. The
program seeks funding from federal and state government agencies focused on
developing high-power laser technologies and advanced manufacturing trained
workforce.
Objective: To create a state-of-the-art
training program in high power laser technologies and specialized advanced manufacturing,
addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in this sector.
Scope: The initiative will extend
specialized training to faculty and students of all interested HBCUs and MIs at
no cost and as well as other institutions and corporations for a fee.
State-of-the-art Laser Equipment: Coherent Corp. has already donated equipment worth over half-a-million dollars for the training institute. LFTC has also committed to sharing its equipment for the training institute. More corporations are expected to join this outstanding initiative.
Facility: LNF has already acquired a 34,500 sq. ft. building in Columbus, Ohio for the training institute. The facility is currently undergoing renovations to have space for the equipment, three smart classrooms, one state-of-the-art conference room.
Comprehensive Curriculum: LNF, in collaboration with Coherent Corp., experts from The Ohio State University, University of Texas at Austin, Georgia Institute of Technology, Intel, and Laser Focused Technology Corporation (LFTC), LNF, and others will develop a cutting-edge curriculum encompassing laser physics, materials science, advanced manufacturing processes, safety protocols, and workforce readiness skills.