OUR MISSION
Empowering Innovation in Optics and Photonics
At SCOP, our mission is to strengthen the optics and photonics industry in Arizona’s Optics Valley by fostering collaboration, innovation, and education. We are committed to providing access to advanced optical technologies and facilitating a vibrant ecosystem where small and medium-sized companies can thrive. By partnering with educational institutions and industry leaders, we aim to develop a highly skilled workforce equipped to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving field. Through our community lab, educational programs, and strategic partnerships, we strive to break down barriers to technological advancement and build a sustainable future for the optics community.
Read more about our mission here:
President
Cat Merril
Mrs. Merrill has over 20 years of experience in the optical field both in the private and public spheres. She has served as program director at the University of Arizona for astronomy missions and is currently the owner of Ruda Optical which specializes in custom optical engineering and assemblies. She has also served as the president of the JobPath board of directors seeking to improve educational and vocational achievement within Tucson.
Vice President
Dr. Lukas Gruber
Dr. Gruber has more than 25 years of experience in the photonics industry and is currently responsible for business development in industrial, scientific and energy markets at Leonardo Electronics.
Treasurer & Secretary
Dan McCormick
Mr. McCormick has over 15 years of experience in optical engineering, including the fields of diode lasers, space defense applications, and interferometry. He also serves as adjunct faculty at Pima Community College where he is developing and teaching optical courses for technicians.
Board Member at Large
Scott Stewart
Mr. Stewart has over 35 years of experience in optical engineering, predominantly in the test arena. Additionally, he also served for 18 years on the Pima Community College Board championing workforce development programs.
Board Member at Large
Dr. Elka Koehler
Dr. Koehler has over 25 years of optical experience, serving at NASA Langley, Raytheon, Teledyne, Worldview, and GEOST. She has also served as a AAAS Congressional Science and Technology Fellow where she advised the senate on policy issues. She is currently the head of optical engineering at NSF NOIRLab.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Advancing Optics and
Photonics Together
At the Southwestern Center for Optics and Photonics (SCOP), we are dedicated to propelling the regional optical community into a future rich with innovation and collaboration. As a pivotal hub in Optics Valley, we connect businesses, educational institutions, and industry leaders through our community lab and development programs. Our initiatives not only facilitate access to cutting-edge optical equipment but also foster a skilled workforce through comprehensive educational pathways. By uniting a diverse board of directors with a shared vision, SCOP is shaping an ecosystem where technology and talent thrive together, ensuring a brighter, more innovative tomorrow for the optics and photonics industry.