Beschreibung:
<jats:p>A roadblock to long-term growth of the photonics industry is the
availability of well-trained, adaptable middle-skilled workers. This
research characterizes the middle-skilled workforce gap, including the
quantity required and skills needed. We estimate that 42,000 new
technical middle-skilled workers are needed by 2030, requiring another
100 technician programs nationwide. Training skills along the supply
chain are critical; programs must emphasize testing, troubleshooting,
and process design. Middle-skilled workers trained in critical
thinking will enable an adaptable workforce capable of handling
technology evolution. Finally, recommendations for the academia,
industry, and middle-skilled training ecosystem are included to ensure
that the latter evolves with technology development.</jats:p>