Katrina Relief — Photonics Firms Donate Funds, Equipment, Services

PITTSFIELD, Mass., Sept. 13 -- Photonics-related companies are contributing to Hurricane Katrina relief efforts in the form of financial contributions, volunteerism and donations of technology and services. Participating companies include the following (See also "Ocean Optics Offers Office, Lab Space to Firms, Students in Katrina Zone"):

Barrington, N.J.-based Edmund Optics said it has several job openings in optical manufacturing, assembly, sales, marketing and human resources. To inquire about assistance with a job opportunity or relocation, contact the company's human resources department at (800) 363-1992; e-mail: humanresources@edmundoptics.com

Genex, based in Boston, has donated the use of its OmniEye WellCam video surveillance sensors to the US Army rapid equipping force for rescue operations to be conducted in the wake of Hurricane Katrina in Louisiana and Mississippi. The cameras, which weigh less than 10 ounces, enable 360-degree inspection of hard-to-reach places such as shipping containers, pipelines, building rubble, and wells, and provide continuous panoramic feedback.

Miltec UV, a Stevensville, Md., supplier of ultraviolet and infrared products, will make a contribution based on its gross sales for September to the American Red Cross hurricane relief fund.

The American Electronics Association (AeA) Midwest Council announced it will accept and circulate resumes and job requests from the Katrina-affected regions. Potential job candidates are encouraged to fax, email or mail their qualifications for consideration by its 130 countrywide member organizations. AeA represents nearly 2500 high-tech companies. "We are all eager to help those affected by Katrina and encourage members from the Midwest tech community to offer assistance to individuals in need of employment and additional resources," said Ed Longanecker, executive director of AeA's Midwest Council. Job seekers willing to relocate may fax resumes to (630) 613-7175; e-mail: ed_longanecker@aeanet.org