Industrial Affiliates Program – CREOL, The College of Optics and Photonics

Industrial Affiliates (IA) Program

Since its formation in 1987 as CREOL – The Center for Research and Education in Optics and Lasers, the College of Optics and Photonics has been guided by its mandate to be a center of excellence in optics and lasers, in both research and education, and to act as an intellectual, scientific and technical resource to the optics and photonics industry. This mission is congruent with one of the five major objectives of the University of Central Florida: to be the leading Partnership University in the nation in the twenty-first century.

Towards this end, CREOL, The College of Optics & Photonics has formed strong bonds with industry, has become a major force in Florida’s laser and photonics community, and is a prime source of highly educated talent in the optics and photonics field. The College is recognized as a key component of the national as well as international fabric in optics and photonics.

Industrial corporations and businesses that are involved in the development or use of optics and photonics, or foresee the company’s involvement in future applications and processes using optics and photonics, are encouraged to become involved in our programs. This involvement will positively impact our progress and our expanding education and research programs, and will help formulate and crystallize our vision for developments and applications in optics and photonics in the future.

Progressions in optics and photonics will play an increasingly important role in many segments of our society, in our technological future, and in the economic strength of our nation. The principal vehicles through which industries and organizations can participate in our programs are through membership in our Industrial Affiliates program, and through sponsorship of specific research activities. All of our faculty members participate in the formulation and execution of a wide variety of proposals for external funding – SBIR, STTR, ATP, GOALI, and federal BAA – and actively seek corporate partners for these efforts.

To join the College of Optics and Photonics Industrial Affiliates program, please fill out a Membership Application. If you will be joining with a cash contribution for the annual donation, please use the UCF Foundation online form.

Progam Funds

Donations to our Affiliate Program will enhance the educational and research environment at CREOL, The College of Optics & Photonics in many ways. In addition to the current benefits of membership, we expect to offer to our Affiliates in the future an increasing number of programs and benefits at CREOL, The College of Optics & Photonics, on the Web, and through other media. These will include:

Web-based information and training programs.
Workshops on topics of specific interests to sections of our Affiliates.
Special short-term industrial internships for technical training.
Student ambassadorships to Industrial Affiliates and national facilities.
Special educational programs for Affiliates.
Scholarships and travel grants for students.

For further information please contact:

Dr. M.J. Soileau at mj@ucf.edu

Our Life Members

Any individual, corporation, or organization that participates in the University’s Eminent Scholar’s Program that results in the creation of an Endowed Professorship in CREOL, The College of Optics & Photonics. These donations are eligible for the State Matching Gifts Program.

Our Medallion Members

Any individual, corporation, or organization making a donation in excess of $10,000 in cash annually, or $50,000 of new equipment, services or other products. A combination of at least $5,000 in cash and $10,000 or more of new equipment, services or other products may also qualify. Please contact us for details.