Empowering Our Workforce through Electro-Optics Training

May 28, 2026
Innovation starts with people. As Montana’s photonics and optical sensing industries continue to scale, the need for a ready, skilled workforce at all levels has never been greater. We aren’t just building technology; we are building the pathways that allow Montanans to step into high-quality, future-focused careers right here at home. Join us for a webinar featuring Katherine Booher, Director of Workforce Partnerships at Accelerate Montana to learn more about their Electro-Optics Assembly Technician training program. Katherine will share the story of how this program was born and the future of this and other workforce readiness programs for our state’s high-tech ecosystem. What we’ll explore: 1. Bridging the Gap: How we are creating a pipeline of skilled technicians to support Montana’s growing companies. 2. Removing Barriers: Ensuring that high-demand technical career pathways are accessible to more Montanans. 3. Where We Go From Here: Opportunities to continue this work in communities across that state. Whether you are an industry partner looking to grow your team or a community member interested in the future of Montana’s tech landscape, we invite you to pull up a chair and join the conversation. Together, we are cultivating the talent that keeps Montana competing on a national and global stage.
speaker
Katherine
Booher, Ed.D.
Katherine is a workforce development and postsecondary education scholar-practitioner who is passionate about connecting Montanans to meaningful careers. She currently serves as the Director of Workforce Partnerships at Accelerate Montana where she collaborates with industry, higher education, and community partners to design and deliver responsive skills-based training opportunities.  Originally from the Midwest, she holds a master's degree in student affairs administration and a graduate certificate in teaching and learning in postsecondary education, both from Michigan State University. Most recently, she earned a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Montana. When she isn’t working, you can find her exploring Bitterroot trailheads with her spunky pup and tending to her ever-expanding garden.