Chamber Member News
November 10, 2026
Front Range Community College (FRCC) has earned statewide recognition for helping prepare Colorado’s workforce for emerging careers in quantum technology.
The college received the State of Colorado’s Innovation Award, in collaboration with Elevate Quantum, for its work developing specialized training in optics, lasers and quantum technology. Presented through the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT), the award recognizes innovative approaches to workforce development and industry partnerships.
The recognition highlights FRCC’s role in connecting education with the technical skills needed to support Colorado’s growing advanced technology industries.
Preparing Students for the Quantum Workforce
Through its partnership with Elevate Quantum, FRCC has expanded its training in precision optics and laser technology, skills essential to the development and operation of quantum systems.
The college offers Colorado’s only undergraduate Optics, Quantum & Laser Technology program, housed at its Center for Integrated Manufacturing in Longmont.
The program provides hands-on technical training designed to help students enter a growing field without necessarily pursuing an advanced degree.
Expanding Access to Emerging Careers
According to FRCC, approximately 80% of jobs in quantum technology will not require an advanced degree. The college also reports that technician roles in the industry have median salaries around $80,000 annually, with demand expected to grow in the coming years.
Connecting Education, Industry and Opportunity
The state’s Innovation Awards recognize organizations that demonstrate leadership in talent development, training and work-based learning. Award recipients are recognized for creating effective, scalable approaches that help prepare Colorado residents for in-demand jobs.
FRCC’s recognition reflects the importance of partnerships between educational institutions and industry leaders in developing the specialized workforce needed for emerging technologies.
For Northern Colorado’s business community, initiatives like these demonstrate how investments in workforce training can support innovation, expand career opportunities and strengthen the region’s economic competitiveness.
A Growing Role in Colorado’s Innovation Economy
FRCC’s quantum workforce efforts build on the college’s broader commitment to technical education and advanced manufacturing. Through its collaboration with Elevate Quantum, the college is helping establish pathways for students to participate in an emerging industry with significant potential for Colorado’s economy.
The Fort Collins Area Chamber of Commerce congratulates Front Range Community College on this recognition and its continued investment in developing the talent that will help shape Northern Colorado’s future.
Read the Full Story
Learn more about FRCC’s Innovation Award, its partnership with Elevate Quantum and the college’s work preparing students for emerging technology careers.
Source: Front Range Community College, “FRCC Earns State Innovation Award for Quantum Work,” by Jessica Peterson, November 9, 2026.