Last July, the first images produced by NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope awed citizens around the world, providing a glimpse into a past more than 13 billion years old. Arizona expertise was featured prominently in the breakthrough.
More than 20 experts from the University of Arizona were credited with developing and managing key imaging instruments aboard the telescope, underscoring the state’s leading role in the fields of optics and photonics.
The Merriam-Webster dictionary defines optics as “a science that deals with the genesis and propagation of light.” The emerging field promises to play an increasingly important role in the development of next-generation technologies, such as semiconductors, automated vehicles, consumer electronics, medical devices, defense systems and more.
Southern Arizona, in particular, has established itself as one of the world’s leading hubs of optics expertise thanks to a rich history of innovation, robust university talent and critical mass of leading companies.
“In the world of optics, the University of Arizona is big time. As an academic institution it is absolutely world-leading,” said John Dennis, chair of industry group, Optics Valley, referring to UArizona’s Wyant College of Optical Sciences. “I would argue it’s the best graduate program in the world. There is a tremendous amount of technology that comes from it.”
Statewide, an industry analysis shows 226 optics and photonics companies in Arizona and about 7,700 jobs in the industry. Optics Valley estimates optics, photonics and astronomy combine to have a $4 billion economic impact on the state.
Commercial real estate broker Michael Coretz, whose firm specializes in Tucson’s tech industry, said UArizona research, coupled with Arizona’s favorable business climate, make Southern Arizona perfectly suited for optics firms.
“We are home to a highly educated and skilled workforce, which is essential for the development and production of cutting-edge optics and photonics technologies,” said Coretz, whose Commercial Real Estate Group of Tucson produced a white paper on the optics sector. “And Arizona has a favorable business climate, with low taxes, a skilled workforce and a supportive business community that encourages the growth of these high-tech companies.”
As examples of the field’s growing importance, semiconductor manufacturing uses optics at almost every step of the process; automated vehicles rely on numerous photonic sensors and imaging systems to map out roadways; advanced manufacturing uses optics for precise measuring, materials processing and robotics; and bioscience and health care researchers are using optics to discover the inner workings of cells and the human body.
John Dennis of Optics Valley notes that while much of the technology originates in Tucson, a lion’s share of the application of optics happens in the Phoenix area, with big suppliers and advanced manufacturers expanding in and around the greater Phoenix region.
For example, VIAVI Solutions, a publicly traded global provider of optical security and performance products, made headlines for relocating its headquarters from San Jose, California, to Chandler, where it opened its new manufacturing facility last year.
“As a global company, the right locations have been critical to our business success,” Oleg Khaykin, VIAVI president and CEO, said in 2021. “We are excited to establish a major new hub in Chandler, Arizona, and expand our involvement in the state’s optics ecosystem.”
Additional industry leaders with a presence in the state include PowerPhotonic, Edmund Optics, Leonardo Electronics, Corning and more.
Leonardo Electronics, a provider of next-gen technologies for defense, security, medical and industrial applications, is expanding its presence in Oro Valley in Southern Arizona, with plans to create nearly 200 additional jobs. The expansion, which will include a new semiconductor laser manufacturing facility, represents a $100 million investment.
“This new larger facility will support our business growth across all key market segments,” said Matthew Keegan, president and CEO, Leonardo Electronics US Inc. "We ultimately selected Innovation Park in Oro Valley due to its proximity to our existing employee base and exceptional talent in the region, which is one of the leading photonics technology hubs in the country."
Read more about how the Arizona Commerce Authority helps accelerate technology and innovation in Arizona at azcommerce.com/industries/technology-innovation/.
