At SPIE Optics + Photonics in late August, I was thrilled to see two new books from SPIE aimed at young kids. I am also thankful for the authors—SPIE Members who want to make a difference. Getting young kids interested and excited about science is critical to the continued growth of our community. We can all play a part in helping educate the public about our field and the opportunities for rewarding careers.
Even though I now work in industry, I still carry a passion for teaching from my early days as an associate professor at the University of Strasbourg. From giving short courses at SPIE conferences, and writing field guides and textbooks, to giving in-company classes on specific topics and even engaging in STEM discussions in my kids’ schools, I find it rewarding in every aspect.
Outreach stands as an essential part of the values and mission of SPIE, and the Members of SPIE are at the forefront of driving its importance. Photonics, with its profound impact on future technologies, holds the key to unlocking innovations that touch every aspect of modern life, but we must have engineers, researchers, and technicians to do the work. In this context, the significance of STEM outreach takes on a unique dimension.
SPIE Members play a vital role in inspiring future photonics engineers and scientists by sharing their expertise and passion. As practitioners, we can ignite curiosity in young minds and demonstrate the magic of photonics through hands-on experiences and captivating demonstrations—or by writing children’s books. By showcasing the transformative power of light, SPIE Members can inspire the next generation to delve into the exciting world of photonics.
Moreover, STEM outreach efforts by SPIE Members can serve as powerful tools to break down barriers that have historically hindered underrepresented groups from entering the photonics landscape. By reaching out to individuals from various backgrounds and communities, SPIE Members can show that photonics engineering is an inclusive space where innovation knows no boundaries.
In a quickly evolving technological landscape, photonics skills have become increasingly essential for addressing global challenges and driving economic growth. We can plant the seeds of knowledge early on, nurturing a pipeline of photonics talent that will contribute to groundbreaking advancements in fields like telecommunications, medical imaging, and renewable energy.
Furthermore, photonics engineers hold insights into solving critical global issues, from healthcare to environmental sustainability. Outreach efforts allow us to disseminate accurate information and empower citizens to make informed decisions, harnessing the power of photonics to improve lives and safeguard the planet.
In the realm of photonics engineering, the importance of STEM outreach cannot be overstated. SPIE Members have a unique opportunity to inspire the next generation of innovators, break down barriers, foster diversity, and drive societal progress. We can not only shape the future of photonics, but also contribute to a world where the potential of light-based technologies is harnessed to the fullest.
At SPIE Optics + Photonics in late August, I was thrilled to see two new books from SPIE aimed at young kids. I am also thankful for the authors—SPIE Members who want to make a difference. Getting young kids interested and excited about science is critical to the continued growth of our community. We can all play a part in helping educate the public about our field and the opportunities for rewarding careers.
Even though I now work in industry, I still carry a passion for teaching from my early days as an associate professor at the University of Strasbourg. From giving short courses at SPIE conferences, and writing field guides and textbooks, to giving in-company classes on specific topics and even engaging in STEM discussions in my kids’ schools, I find it rewarding in every aspect.
Outreach stands as an essential part of the values and mission of SPIE, and the Members of SPIE are at the forefront of driving its importance. Photonics, with its profound impact on future technologies, holds the key to unlocking innovations that touch every aspect of modern life, but we must have engineers, researchers, and technicians to do the work. In this context, the significance of STEM outreach takes on a unique dimension.
SPIE Members play a vital role in inspiring future photonics engineers and scientists by sharing their expertise and passion. As practitioners, we can ignite curiosity in young minds and demonstrate the magic of photonics through hands-on experiences and captivating demonstrations—or by writing children’s books. By showcasing the transformative power of light, SPIE Members can inspire the next generation to delve into the exciting world of photonics.
Moreover, STEM outreach efforts by SPIE Members can serve as powerful tools to break down barriers that have historically hindered underrepresented groups from entering the photonics landscape. By reaching out to individuals from various backgrounds and communities, SPIE Members can show that photonics engineering is an inclusive space where innovation knows no boundaries.
In a quickly evolving technological landscape, photonics skills have become increasingly essential for addressing global challenges and driving economic growth. We can plant the seeds of knowledge early on, nurturing a pipeline of photonics talent that will contribute to groundbreaking advancements in fields like telecommunications, medical imaging, and renewable energy.
Furthermore, photonics engineers hold insights into solving critical global issues, from healthcare to environmental sustainability. Outreach efforts allow us to disseminate accurate information and empower citizens to make informed decisions, harnessing the power of photonics to improve lives and safeguard the planet.
In the realm of photonics engineering, the importance of STEM outreach cannot be overstated. SPIE Members have a unique opportunity to inspire the next generation of innovators, break down barriers, foster diversity, and drive societal progress. We can not only shape the future of photonics, but also contribute to a world where the potential of light-based technologies is harnessed to the fullest.
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Bernard Kress 2023 SPIE President |
