TOPS Holds 100th Graduation
Since its founding in 1995, TOPS has been at the forefront of force preservation, developing highly skilled opticians who ensure our military members can “bring sight to the fight.” These technicians are critical to mission success, providing the essential eyewear that enables warfighters to operate effectively in complex environments, from the bridge of a ship to the front lines. The recent graduating class, 26-005, is now prepared to continue this vital support.
Cmdr. Joshua Keil, Dean of TOPS, addressed the graduates, emphasizing their new role in supporting the military’s primary mission. “I’ve been truly impressed by all 12 of you. You showed up each day, willing to learn,” he said. “It’s not easy to stay motivated and engaged, especially if optics is not something you chose. Some of you may have enjoyed it. As you head to your new duty stations, I charge you to stay motivated, support the war fighter and always do the right thing.”
The ceremony included opening remarks from Capt. James Corbett, Commanding Officer of NMLPDC, followed by closing remarks from Keil, celebrating the 100th class to graduate.
“I’m proud of each and every one of you,” said Keil. “I speak for all of us here at TOPS that it has been a true pleasure to train you.”
Keil and Corbett presented each graduate with their certificates of completion as opticians:
U.S. Army Pfc. Emily Loden
U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 3rd Class Jeramiah Johnson
U.S. Army Sgt. Alejandro Cepeda
U.S. Army Pfc. Sadie Eversole
U.S. Army Pfc. Bhishma Gurmachhan
U.S. Army Spc. David Hinneh
U.S. Army Pvt. Lanaiya Johnson
U.S. Army Pfc. Harleen Kaur
U.S. Army Pvt. Miguel Llanes
U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Quintin May
U.S. Army Pfc. Abdul-Manan Sulemana
U.S. Navy Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class Kiana Reeder-Akinlabi
“Good luck on your journey,” said Corbett. “This is but one step on your journey as opticians, soldiers, and sailors. Good luck in all your future endeavors”
The rigorous 24-week program at TOPS equips service members with comprehensive technical expertise in opticianry. The curriculum, accredited by the Commission on Opticianry Accreditation and the Council on Occupational Education, ensures that each graduate can fabricate, fit, and dispense military-issue eyewear, a capability that directly contributes to a medically ready and deployable force. Two training iterations are held per year with a maximum of 30 students per class who earn degree credits through the Uniformed Services University.
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