This Project Grant award from the National Science Foundation's Engineering program (CFDA 47.041) will provide $139,432 to the University of Central Florida to host a 3-year Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU) site titled "Unleashing the Light: Building the Future of Laser Technologies". The program will engage 10 undergraduate students per year in 10 weeks of research and educational experiences focused on laser engineering and technologies. Students will work closely with faculty mentors at UCF's College of Optics & Photonics (CREOL) on projects such as extending fiber lasers into the mid-IR, studying ultrashort laser pulses, designing new laser cavities, and developing optical sensing and communications technologies. The program will also provide professional development sessions on research ethics and STEM careers. This award aims to help prepare the next generation of scientists in laser engineering and technology.