Oakton to host January nanotechnology open houses
Looking for the fast track to a rewarding technology career? Join Oakton Community College for free Thursday open house events from 6 - 7:30 p.m. on Jan. 7 and Jan. 14 at the Illinois Science + Technology Park Conference Center, 8045 Lamon Ave., Skokie.
Join noted industry expert John Ireland and Oakton Dean of Mathematics and Technologies Bob Sompolski as they explore the rapidly growing field of nanotechnology and discuss Oakton-related internships, jobs and business resources in this field. Connect with representatives of local nanotech companies, discuss Oakton's nanotech curriculum with faculty and alumni and tour the laboratory as part of these events.
"As a community member and research scientist, I was very impressed with the facilities and equipment and was excited to learn about Oakton's Remote Access Guidance for Educators (ORANGE) program," said STEM Specialist and Life Science Advisor Paloma Vargas, Ph.D., following a previous open house. "The information provided during the laboratory tour was very informative."
Nanotechnology is one of the most rapidly growing career fields, playing a critical role in biology, chemistry, engineering, medicine and physics - from building microprocessors and delivering anti-cancer drugs efficiently to making clothes more stain resistant and improving sunscreen absorption.
By the end of 2016, the field will need 6 million workers and 2.5 million support personnel, with salaries ranging from $30,000 to $95,000, depending on the level of education.
Oakton will offer four nanotechnology courses during the spring 2016 semester: Fundamentals of Nanotechnology I - PHY 140 050 [CRN 11305], Fundamentals of Nanotechnology II - PHY 141 050 [CRN 11376], Nanotechnology Projects - PHY 142 050 [CRN 11778] and Nanotechnology Internship - PHY 143 050 [CRN 11754]. Each is fundamental to Oakton's 31-credit-hour nanotechnology certificate. Enrollment is limited, and classes begin Jan. 19. Register at www.oakton.edu/admission.
To learn more about nanotechnology, the open houses and certificate programs, contact Bob Sompolski at (847) 635-1975 or by email at somplski@oakton.edu. Visit ne3i.eventbrite.com to attend one of the free open houses.