Two Niagara College Photonics Engineering Technician students Samantha Turmel and Ishita Paragkumar Soni, and alumnus Chris Dipardo (Spring 2022), are the recipients of the 2022 Eichenholz-SPIE Photonics Technician Scholarship.

NC – home to one of the only full-time photonics programs in Canada – represented three of the four recipients of the $2,500 scholarship from SPIE, the international society for optics and photonics. Photonics is the study of the physical science of light waves which explores the generation, detection and manipulation of light.

“Niagara College is exceptionally proud of Samantha, Ishita and Chris for winning this prestigious scholarship from SPIE,” said John Da Silva, Associate Dean in the School of Technology. “Our Photonics Engineering Technician students develop a wide range of skills in traditional optics, fiber optics, quantum, optical coatings, and lasers that will open doors to high-tech manufacturing, either in the manufacturing of these technologies directly, or in the application of these technologies in other industries, such as biomedical, entertainment, defense, aerospace, agriculture, and food.”

“SPIE congratulates this year’s 2022 Eichenholz-SPIE Photonics Technician Scholarship winners,” said SPIE CEO Kent Rochford. “The optics and photonic industry is booming, and the demand for technicians has never been greater. SPIE is pleased to see Niagara College’s commitment to training this vital workforce for the great jobs that await.”

Turmel of Niagara Falls and Ishita from Gujarat State in India will return to their studies this Fall term and represents a growing number of women pursuing careers in STEM.

Turmel, whose interests lie in optics – specifically telescopes and microscopes – knew there was a need for women in the industry.

“Being a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field can certainly be discouraging. However, I fell in love with the topic and know I am just as qualified to do the work as all the men in my program. You just have to believe in yourself and you will come out on top. I am very happy where I am right now in the program, and some of the men in my class even look to me for answers when studying or doing work,” said Turmel.

Ishita, who holds a master’s degree in applied physics, was drawn to NC’s Photonics Engineering Technician program for the real-world application.

“Getting this scholarship from SPIE means a lot to me because as it will relieve a little bit of the financial pressure … and will motivate me to give my best effort in the terms ahead,” said Ishita. She encourages anyone who thinks logically, has patience and loves problem-solving to explore the field of photonics.

“The thing which excites me about this field is that you can be a problem solver and leave a remarkable impact. Personally, I feel great when I can resolve something.”

For Dipardo of St. Catharines (originally Niagara Falls), photonics was a pathway to a second career. Prior to the pandemic, Dipardo served as a senior executive with Sunrise Records for half a decade. He was interested in applying principles of physics and math to the growing field of photonics which touches technology of all kinds.

“Photonics is used in so much, so the potential for new opportunities is ever growing. What I like most is that the field always surprises you with its variety. I enjoy learning new things, solving problems, and covering a variety of subjects. Photonics has it all,” said Dipardo.

“The photonics program [at NC] was crucial in preparing me for the field of photonics. The professors were always willing to answer questions and explain it in ways that made it understandable and easy to perform work. They help you to also build a strong foundation to learn more,” said Dipardo, who is currently continuing his studies at Brock University.

Scholarship winners also received a one-year complimentary SPIE Student Membership which comes with exclusive networking opportunities, free access to professional development workshops, and discounts for events, publications and courses.

“We are grateful for the support our students received from SPIE this year and, indirectly, the recognition of our unique Canada program,” said professor Cristina Simionescu. “Niagara College strives to prepare our students to be future-ready with the photonics and system engineering skills that will help them to excel in all industries where photonics is enabling innovation.”

The Eichenholz-SPIE scholarship is made possible by the generous support of SPIE Fellow Jason Eichenholz, a serial entrepreneur, executive, and recognized pioneer in laser and optics enabled innovation, product development, and commercialization.

Niagara College offers more than 130 diploma, bachelor degree and advanced level programs; as well as more than 600 credit, vocational and general interest Part-Time Studies courses. Areas of specialization include food and wine sciences, advanced technology, media, applied health and community safety, supported by unique learning enterprises in food, wine, beer, distilling, horticulture and esthetics. For more information visit niagaracollege.ca.

 Photos: Samantha Turmel, Ishita Paragkumar Soni and Chris Dipardo.