An optical interconnect structure and method are provided. The optical interconnect structure includes a plate on which a mirror is formed. The optical interconnect structure further includes a waveguide structure comprising a waveguide core and an opening. The plate is mounted on the waveguide structure such the mirror is inserted in the opening for light coupling (i) from the waveguide core and to an optical element positioned on the plate and (ii) to the waveguide core from the optical element positioned on the plate.