U.S. Secretary of Labor Acosta visits REO

Aug. 8, 2017
Secretary Alexander Acosta wanted to learn more about REO's optics apprenticeship program, a model for a wider initiative in September.

(Image: REO)

Secretary Alexander Acosta of the U.S. Department of Labor visited REO (Boulder, CO) on Friday, July 21st, 2017 to learn more about the company's optics apprenticeship program, which is in its second year. Together with Front Range Community College and several Colorado-based optics and photonics manufacturing companies, REO has led the effort to develop an optics technician apprenticeship program and certification.

This program combines on-the-job training and classroom learning to provide a solid foundation for a successful career in precision optics manufacturing. The Front Range of Colorado has become a center for optical manufacturing and the demand for highly trained and skilled optical technicians continues to increase.

Secretary Acosta toured the REO facility and met four of the six REO apprentices. When asked by Secretary Acosta how things were going, one apprentice responded, "This is cool: my friends are working at Olive Garden and I get to build HeNe lasers!"

Secretary Acosta wanted to know how the Department of Labor could help continue to support apprenticeship initiatives like this one. He noted that in September an initiative will be announced to encourage more apprenticeship programs headed by companies within various industries rather than by the government.

To learn more about REO's optics apprenticeship program, see http://www.reoinc.com/apprenticeship-program

Source: REO

Sponsored Recommendations

How Precision Motion Systems are Shaping the Future of Semiconductor Manufacturing

March 28, 2024
This article highlights the pivotal role precision motion systems play in supporting the latest semiconductor manufacturing trends.

Understanding 3D Printing Tolerances: A Guide to Achieving Precision in Additive Manufacturing

March 28, 2024
In the world of additive manufacturing, precision is paramount. One crucial aspect of ensuring precision in 3D printing is understanding tolerances. In this article, we’ll explore...

Automation Technologies to Scale PIC Testing from Lab to Fab

March 28, 2024
This webinar will cover the basics of precision motion systems for PIC testing and discuss the ways motion solutions can be specifically designed to address the production-scale...

Case Study: Medical Tube Laser Processing

March 28, 2024
To enhance their cardiovascular stent’s precision, optimize throughput and elevate part quality, a renowned manufacturer of medical products embarked on a mission to fabricate...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Laser Focus World, create an account today!