MCC Proud: Meet Alexis Vogt

December 2, 2024

Alexis Vogt, Professor & Chair of Optical Systems Technology, has worked at Monroe Community College (MCC) for 9 years.

While Vogt received her Bachelor’s Degree and PhD from the Institute of Optics at the University of Rochester, she wasn’t always sure what to study.

“I began my studies at the University of Rochester with an undecided major, drawn to a wide range of subjects,” said Vogt. “I was equally passionate about taking violin lessons at the Eastman School of Music and exploring fields like philosophy, religion, brain and cognitive science, and engineering.”

Then, a few friends urged her to take Introduction to Optics, praising both the professor and the fascinating content. Their recommendation proved spot on! “Both the course and the professor captivated me,” she added.

Inspired by the experience, Vogt later developed the Introduction to Optics course at MCC, which has since been adopted as a dual enrollment program in 20 local high schools. The goal is to inspire more students to discover the field of optics and to channel their interest into the MCC program.

In recognition of her work, Vogt has received numerous awards, including the 2023 SPIE María J. Yzuel Educator Award recognizing outstanding contributions to optics education by a SPIE instructor or an educator in the field. Other honors include the 2021 Rochester Regional Photonics Cluster Leadership Award, the 2020 IEEE Technical Skills Educator Award, the 2018 National Women’s Hall of Fame Keeper of the Flame Award, the 2017 New York Photonics Education Award, and the Rochester Business Journal’s “Forty Under 40” award in 2016.

In addition to those honors, Vogt was invited to attend the State of the Union earlier this year as a guest of Congressman Joe Morelle. In October, she was invited by NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy to attend the National Space Council’s Space Workforce Roundtable at The White House. The convening included industry and community college workforce leaders discussing the current and future needs of the space industry. It was also an opportunity to hear about the Administration’s space STEM priorities and learn about national efforts to strengthen and grow the space workforce.

“The day was long (I left my house at 3am and got home at midnight), but the experience was one I will never forget,” said Vogt. “I was incredibly honored to represent MCC at the White House.”

Along with her work at MCC, Vogt serves as a board member on the American Precision Optics Manufacturers Association (APOMA), the Rochester Museum & Science Center (RMSC), the New York Photonics/Rochester Regional Photonics Cluster (RRPC), and on SPIE, the international society for optics and photonics. Locally, she is a board member for the Brighton Boys Lacrosse Club.

Vogt also serves on the University of Rochester Hajim School of Engineering Dean’s Advisory Council, the University of Rochester Institute of Optics Industrial Associates Director’s Advisory Council, the Exploring Racism Group Steering Committee, and helps coach her children’s lacrosse teams.

When asked what advice she would give current or prospective MCC students, Vogt said, “Optics is an incredibly exciting field—one that is shaping the future of technology. Many of our most groundbreaking innovations, like optical fiber, lasers, and smartphones, are built on optics and photonics technology. However, the industry faces a critical shortage of skilled workers. Every one of our students secures employment upon graduation, and in fact, they often have multiple job offers to choose from.”

Outside of MCC, Vogt is an avid outdoor enthusiast, having summited Mt. Kilimanjaro, Mt. Whitney, and Mt. Rainier. She has also competed in the Ironman triathlon in Lake Placid and the Boston Marathon. “I’ve memorized pi to 82 digits and have been playing the violin since I was five years old,” she added.

Vogt and her husband are the proud parents of three children, ages 7, 10, and 12.

Fun Facts:

Favorite Sports Team? The Buffalo Bills! I was photographed at Arrowhead Stadium when the Bills trounced the Kansas City Chiefs in October 2022 and the image has been broadcast nationally in NFL commercials and is available for purchase from the Buffalo News store.
Biggest Fear? I’m blessed to lead an exceptional team in our Optical Systems Technology program. Together, we’ve achieved remarkable growth, expanding and diversifying our student body from just 5 to 129 students. However, there’s still tremendous potential to further grow enrollment and better serve our community, the optics industry, and our nation. One of my biggest concerns is that my team is grant-funded, which often keeps me up at night, worried about securing the necessary resources to continue supporting them.
Share the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you. Our world becomes a better place when we not only respect one another but also embrace the richness that diversity of thought, background, and perspective brings. The best advice I’ve received comes from the Bible, Matthew 7:12: “In everything, do to others what you would have them do to you…” This wisdom reminds us to value and treat others with the kindness and respect we all deserve.
What destination do you hope to visit one day? Traveling is one of my greatest passions. I have visited all 50 states and always look forward to exploring new countries. I love immersing myself in diverse cultures and savoring unique cuisines. Even more rewarding is sharing these experiences with my husband and children, introducing my children to new cultures, perspectives, and adventures, helping them broaden their horizons from a young age.
What activities do you participate in over the weekend? I love being with my family. On the weekends we ski, mountain bike, go to church, and cheer on the Bills.
Professor Alexis Vogt