APOMA Tech Workshop October 26–29, 2026 | Cocoa Beach, FL
Speakers announced!
The wait is over. Our speaker lineup for the 2026 APOMA Tech Workshop has arrived! This year’s program brings together an exceptional group of thought leaders from academia, industry, and government, all converging to share breakthrough insights in precision optics. And we’re not done yet. Additional speakers will be announced soon, so stay tuned!
Join us in beautiful Cocoa Beach, Florida, from October 26–29, 2026, for three days of learning, innovation, and connection. Your experience includes:
Two full days of technical presentations
A welcome reception at Beachside Hotel & Suites
Meaningful networking with industry peers
And an exclusive VIP tour of the Kennedy Space Center, complete with guided site access and an astronaut presentation
Walt Czajkowski Scholarship Fund - Now Accepting Applications!
Applications are officially open for the Walt Czajkowski Scholarship! This program supports individuals pursuing education in precision optics — and it's designed with flexibility in mind. Whether you're a full-time student, enrolled in a single course, or completing a short certification program, you're encouraged to apply.
Application Deadline: August 13, 2026
Know someone furthering their skills in precision optics? Help us spread the word — share this opportunity with students, employees, and anyone looking to invest in their optics education. Click HERE for details.
APOMA at SPIE Optics + Photonics — San Diego, CA | Aug. 24–28
Attention APOMA members: pack your APOMA pin and get ready for some in-person networking! APOMA Executive Director Yvette Pagano will be on-site at SPIE Optics + Photonics in San Diego. In lieu of a members-only event this year, APOMA is proud to sponsor the Optics & Photonics JAM on Wed. August 26 from 7-10pm at the Marriott Marquis San Diego – Marina Terrace. Hosted by Optics for the Greater Good, the JAM brings the community together on the waterfront terrace for live music and casual conversation, away from the trade show floor. Attendance is free with your SPIE badge, and a cash bar will be on site. Please RSVP so organizers can get an accurate headcount, and don't forget your badge for entry.RSVP to Attendor join APOMA as a proud Sponsorhttps://opticsgg.org/sponsorshipSponsorships close on 8/10/26.
You'll also find APOMA at our table in the exhibit hall throughout the conference. Want to discuss the Tech Workshop, current affairs, or interested in becoming an APOMA member? Connect one-on-one with Yvette by reaching out directly atyvette@apoma.orgto set up a time to meet.
New Upskilling Platform for Optics Technicians. And It's the Right Price…
…100% free. We're pleased to share that APOMA member AmeriCOM has officially launched theirLearn AmeriCOMonline training platform — something APOMA members and the broader optics community have been asking for for years.
How can this free training work for your business?
Location, location, location — perfect if you're not lucky enough to live near an optics technical training school
Try before you buy — preview the fundamentals before committing to a formal program
Ace your optics class — a great supplemental resource for current students
Onboarding tool — HR teams can use it to get new hires up to speed
That confused nephew (or neighbor) who just got laid off — send them the link!
Bookmark it, share it, use it — free training doesn't come around often.
WNY Golf Tournament – Good Times for a Good Cause
APOMA was proud to support the WNY Golf Tournament, held July 16, 2026, at Victor Hills Golf Club in Victor, NY. Now celebrating its 26th year, the tournament — presented by APOMA member OptiPro — brings together our industry for a great time in support of an even greater cause: Golisano Children's Hospital. APOMA was proud to serve as the lunch sponsor this year, helping keep golfers fueled up for the back nine. It was wonderful to see so many APOMA members in the spirit of giving. Thank you to all the participants and sponsors who made this year's event a success!