The Impact of Optech on College-Level Training

Located within Cégep André-Laurendeau, Optech contributes both to research development at the institution and to student life. For more than 15 years, Optech has collaborated with college-level training programs and recruits interns every year. The center recognizes the importance of engaging both teachers and students as active members of its team.

PART and NSERC projects represent the main opportunities for teachers and students to participate in Optech’s research and technical assistance projects.

However, since the 2015–2016 academic year, Optech has faced a reduction in the contribution of NSERC’s two RI programs. This directly impacted Optech’s ability to release teachers from teaching duties and involve students in research and technical assistance projects. Today, most projects involving faculty and students are funded by NSERC, PART programs, and FRQNT grants.

This is why Optech is now adapting its scheduling to align more closely with the academic calendar, in order to involve students — and especially teachers — in its long-term projects. In general, PART projects are relatively well coordinated with teaching semesters.

Supporting College Training

Optech targets students enrolled in Physical Engineering Technology programs, offering them internship opportunities within the center. This creates the possibility of hiring them once they graduate. The research center also acts as an intermediary, helping students secure internships or jobs through its network, with companies such as Excelitas, Autolog, and Teraxion.

Optech also develops new training programs in Optronics and Optics across three Cégeps. The center has contributed to the preparation of new college courses and to the enhancement of existing ones, such as integrating AI into Physical Engineering Technology and Arts, Literature, and Communication programs, made possible through SEP grants (with partners such as Fonex, Aeponyx, Iregular, 4D Art, etc.).

Enhancing College Teaching

Optech has improved college teaching by fostering strong relationships with the student community and contributing directly to training programs. Its scientific and technical staff regularly participate in college-level teaching, while also allowing students in Physical Engineering Technology to access its research equipment.

Developing Faculty Expertise

Optech’s presence at Cégep André-Laurendeau has also helped teachers develop their expertise by engaging with real-world industrial and user-related problems. This has enriched their teaching tasks and allowed them to bring applied knowledge back into the classroom.

A Dual Role: Serving Companies and Colleges

Optech serves not only companies but also the college community. It has contributed to improving college curricula, encouraging student participation in projects, and granting access to advanced equipment. By supporting students’ professional integration with its industrial partners, Optech has been able to hire several interns, while also engaging teachers who have strengthened their knowledge, courses, and programs.

In addition, Optech has guided students in carrying out practical projects directly relevant to industry needs, ensuring their training is aligned with future employment opportunities.