Fwd: [MT ITE] Professional Development: Photonics Training

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Eric Tilleman

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Jan 26, 2026, 4:26:37 PM (10 days ago) Jan 26

to AG ED General Group

Subject: [MT ITE] Professional Development: Photonics Training
To: Industrial Technology General Group <in...@opiconnect.org>

Session 1 | February 17 | 4:30–6:00 p.m. - What is Photonics and Why It Matters

What exactly is photonics—and why is it showing up in so many high-demand STEM careers? In this session, educators will hear from Tim VanReken, Executive Director of the Headwaters Tech Hub, for a practical introduction to this fast-growing field. The session connects photonics to real jobs, in-demand skills, and workforce pathways students can see themselves in.

Educators will leave with a hands-on, classroom-ready activity they can use immediately—no specialized background required.
✔ Earn 1.5 OPI renewal units

Session 2 | March 3 | 4:30–6:00 p.m. - Photonics, Lab Safety, and Professional Responsibility

This session brings an employer’s perspective to photonics learning and connects directly to themes from our earlier lab safety webinar. Participants will explore how lab safety, precision, and responsibility show up in real photonics workplaces—and how those expectations translate to classroom labs.

The focus moves beyond rules and equipment to building student habits like planning, risk awareness, communication, and ownership. Educators will leave with additional lessons and activities that integrate photonics content with lab safety and professional practice.