The Electronics Technicians Association International (ETA) has added the photonics technician and precision optics technician certificates to its list of ETA technical certifications. The two certifications were developed by the Florida Photonics Cluster trade association, in cooperation with a number of companies, educational institutions and individual photonics professionals. The ETA developed the certification programs in response to the growth potential for optics and photonics technician jobs. The programs will provide education and training for interested persons to become skilled technicians. The photonics technician certification is available in two levels: operator and specialist. Both levels require traditional theory examinations, as well as a hands-on skills component. Building upon the same skills and knowledge of the operator level, the specialist level will require a higher knowledge level in optics, photonics and technology, as well as a variety of hands-on competencies in laser and optical components and systems. Also available in two levels — journeyman and senior — is ETA’s precision optics technician certification. At the journeyman level, technicians will have a minimum required knowledge and hands-on competencies, as well as experience with optics fabrication and testing. The senior-level certification will offer technicians a broader knowledge of optical and photonics concepts, more hands-on competencies, and experience with fabrication and testing in a range of types of optics and optical coatings. ETA is a not-for-profit professional association that promotes excellence in electronics technologies through certifications. For more information, visit: www.etainternational.org