Students interested in manufacturing and STEM careers got a hands-on opportunity to explore those paths at two separate community events in regions with AmeriCOM optics ecosystems. First, more than 1,200 high school and college students from Northern New England explored disciplines in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) during the third Annual Wicked STEM event in Milford, NH. AmeriCOM partner Keene State College (KSC) was an event sponsor, engaging students and families with hands-on activities and demonstrations. Wicked STEM is designed to cultivate and sustain the interest of students in STEM careers through face-to-face experiences with local experts. 

Above and below, Keene State College representatives discuss the optics program with high school students.


Meanwhile, the Rochester Technology Manufacturing Association (RTMA) hosted an event introducing students to careers in skilled trades and advanced manufacturing. The 4th Annual ROC With Your Hands event drew more than a thousand middle and high school students. AmeriCOM Science Educator Liaison Donna Smith, and Community Liaison for Optics Ecosystems Magda Hernandez Otero, captured students’ attention by demonstrating optics principles through several hands-on activities including a hologram viewer and a 3-D mirror magic trick using polarizing lenses. Students also lined up for what turned out to be a big hit of the event, temporary tattoos featuring AmeriCOM’s Light Up Your Future With Optics campaign. “The first step is getting them curious about how much optics impact our lives,” Smith said. “Once we have their interest, we show them how precision optics can be a viable and fulfilling career.”

Donna Smith and Magda Hernandez Otero represent AmeriCOM and the optics training programs, at the RTMA Roc With Your Hands event.