We invite Montana science teachers to join us for the 32nd Annual OpTeC Conference on October 8, 2026. While we would be glad to welcome you for the full day, we understand that stepping away from the classroom can be difficult; teachers are welcome to attend any portion of the conference, including the evening poster and exhibitor session with the MPQA networking social, which may be a convenient way to connect with students, researchers, educators, and Montana photonics partners.
Optics and photonics show up in technologies students encounter every day, from cell phone cameras and lasers to fiber optics, medical imaging, remote sensing, advanced manufacturing, environmental monitoring, and astronomy. Teachers will leave with current examples, local connections, and new ways to help students connect classroom concepts about light, waves, and engineering to Montana-based STEM careers.
Conference activities especially relevant to teachers include:
- Keynote Speaker – Dr. Julie Bentley, Rudolf and Hilda Kingslake Professor in Optical Engineering at the University of Rochester, offering insight into optical design and the real-world technologies that can inspire students’ curiosity about light, imaging, and engineering
- Oral presentations highlighting MSU optics and photonics research, with examples that can help teachers connect classroom science concepts to active research at Montana State University
- Industry session with photonics companies and partners, highlighting real-world applications and career pathways for students
- Evening poster and exhibitor session with the MPQA networking social, offering one shared setting to meet students, researchers, educators, and industry partners
- Thorlabs Mobile Photonics Lab Experience, a three-day exhibit offering a hands-on look at photonics tools and technologies teachers can connect to classroom concepts
- SPIE-sponsored (no additional cost) pre-conference reception on the evening of October 7, offering an additional opportunity to connect with the optics and photonics community; separate registration information will be shared when available.
- Teacher “externship” opportunities with local companies to help connect classroom science with Montana careers
Ready to Join Us?
Teacher scholarships are available to cover the full conference registration cost. To request one, please email Michelle Leonti at michelle.leonti@montana.edu by September 25 with your name and school. We would be delighted to welcome you and hope you will share this opportunity with colleagues who teach physics, chemistry, engineering, environmental science, or other STEM courses across Montana.
We are also pleased to offer free registration for prospective MSU students, especially for the evening social and networking session. If you know students who may be interested in optics, photonics, engineering, physics, or other STEM pathways at Montana State University, please send the student’s name and high school to Michelle Leonti at michelle.leonti@montana.edu by September 25.
We look forward to welcoming you and your students to the 32nd Annual OpTeC Conference!
Contact
Please reach out with any questions about the conference, registration, or student opportunities.
Michelle Leonti
michelle.leonti@montana.edu
We hope to see you there!
.png)
