Partnership with Elevate Quantum has expanded “world-class” program focused on using lasers and precision optics in quantum technology.
Front Range Community College has been awarded the State of Colorado’s Innovation Award, in collaboration with the Elevate Quantum coalition, for the college’s work in optics and quantum technology.
“In Colorado we know that by investing in our workforce we can train people for success and fill the in-demand jobs of tomorrow in key and growing industries like quantum, semiconductors and advanced manufacturing,” Governor Jared Polis said in a news release. “[These] awardees demonstrate how industry and education can work together to train local talent, create good-paying jobs and keep Colorado competitive on a global scale.”
This award comes from the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT). FRCC is joining world-class companies: IBM and Lockheed Martin received OEDIT’s Talent Innovation Award in the spring of 2026.
A Pipeline to Great Jobs
“This award is a powerful recognition of our workforce training model, which places Coloradans into new jobs and careers in advanced industries,” said FRCC President Colleen Simpson, EdD. “With our partners at Elevate Quantum—America’s quantum hub—we are helping build the practical, hands-on workforce pipeline that will enable the industry to thrive in Colorado, and give our students access to high-paying jobs.”
Eighty percent of quantum technology jobs will not require an advanced degree. Technician roles—with median salaries around $80,000 per year—are expected to double in the coming years.
Optics Skills Are Quantum Skills
With support from Elevate Quantum, FRCC has expanded its innovative offering into “a world-class program focused on using lasers and precision optics in quantum technology,” according to a news release from the governor’s office. “These critical technician skills are essential in building Colorado’s unparalleled quantum industry.”
FRCC has developed the only undergraduate Optics, Quantum & Laser Technology program in Colorado, housed at the college’s Center for Integrated Manufacturing in Longmont. “Precision optics and lasers are fundamental to controlling and managing quantum systems,” according to Jenna Montague, PhD, director of FRCC’s optics, quantum and laser technology program. “That makes the skills students learn in our program critical to the development of the quantum technology industry in Colorado.”
Going Above and Beyond
OEDIT innovation awards recognize businesses and industry partners that demonstrate exceptional leadership in talent, training and on-the-job learning, directly supporting the mission of creating and filling in-demand Colorado jobs with Colorado talent.
To qualify for this distinction, awardees must have gone above and beyond to demonstrate their commitment to Colorado talent.
These awards recognize organizations that have developed and implemented a highly effective, scalable model for on-the-job training, apprenticeships or internships in partnership either independently or with an education/intermediary partner.
About Front Range Community College
FRCC is Colorado’s largest community college, serving more than 28,000 students each year. With courses offered at multiple locations, online and through our high school concurrent enrollment programs, at FRCC, learners can choose from more than 200 degrees and certificates in a wide variety of fields. For more information, visit frontrange.edu.
The college’s strategic plan, Forward, Together, focuses on five strategic priorities: Learning Without Limits, Success for Every Learner, Vibrant Culture, College Excellence and Transformational Partnerships.
FRCC is proud to be part of the Colorado Community College System, advancing educational access and workforce development across the state.
