New laser program at College of Lake County

Recognizing a growing need for experts in the field of laser and optic technology, the College of Lake County will be offering a new certificate program starting this fall.

CLC will be the first community college in the Chicago area to offer the curriculum, school officials said.

"We're very excited about the potential of this course," said program Chairman Steve Dulmes. "There are a number of employers in the area that are looking to hire 100 people a year."

Photonics technicians are typically employed by weapons systems manufacturers and companies that provide water, air and blood analysis, Dulmes said. Companies also use the technology in the production of heart stints where the extreme precision of lasers is required in the machining process.

Dulmes said people with "technical savvy" and those working as machine operators might be perfect candidates for these jobs. He said the average salary for a photonics technician is about $55,000.

The college received a grant of $150,000 from the National Science Foundation to get started. Dulmes said it cost at least $250,000 to get the course off the ground. The bulk of the money was spent on equipment.

"It's been a long time in coming, but definitely worth the wait," Dulmes said. "Besides the major universities, the closest school that offers a similar program is in Iowa."

The course can be completed in two semesters if the student is full time.

An informational session is planned for Aug. 17 at the Grayslake campus at 19351 W. Washington St.