One of the program's standout features is the emphasis on single-point diamond turning, a cutting-edge technology essential in precision optics. By integrating this technique into the curriculum, Keene State ensures that students are exposed to industry-relevant skills from the outset.

Precitech is supporting this effort with the loan of a Nanoform X single point diamond turning lathe. Students have the opportunity to work with this state-of-the-art piece of equipment in their classes. Projects such as crafting eye loupes and Fresnel lenses not only reinforce theoretical concepts but also provide valuable experience in addressing practical challenges.

“One of the challenges that we face here at Precitech is we don’t have many colleges in the area that provide an ultra-precision manufacturing course or curriculum,” said Jennica Dunnell, HR Generalist at Precitech. “Having new hires come in with the experience that they gain from the courses here at Keene State College is a real plus.”

Nate is a recent Keene State graduate who completed the optics curriculum. He began working at Precitech during his senior year of high school through the organization’s co-op program. Through Keene State’s courses, Nate was able to advance his skills and develop a true passion for precision manufacturing, which led him to a full-time position at Precitech as a Manufacturing Engineer after graduating in the spring of 2024.

“Keene State’s optics program helped me find my career path and gave me the skills to succeed,” he says. “I strongly recommend this program to anyone interested in precision manufacturing and look forward to continuing my work at Precitech.”

Precitech’s commitment to Keene State provides the school with one of the key tools they need to educate the next generation of leaders in the ultra-precision machining field – a vital industry throughout the Monadnock region.

“The Monadnock Region has a rich precision engineering history and strong high-accuracy manufacturing ecosystem employing many talented individuals, several of whom studied at Keene State,” Keith Kowalski, former DVP BU Manager for Precitech, said. “We look forward to supporting the next generation of experts who wish to work in the ultra-precision and optics field while making their home in the greater Keene area.”