Rep. Moulton reviews optically-based solution for medical instrument with (l to r) Daniel Orband, CEO Stephen Fantone, PhD, David Imrie, PhD
Wakefield, MA USA, October 6, 2015—Representative Seth Moulton (D-MA) toured Optikos Corporation, to see first-hand how a local high tech firm uses optics and photonics—the science and application of light—to develop and manufacture products that can be found in homes, laboratories, and manufacturing facilities around the world.
Optikos hosted Rep. Moulton on October 2nd as part of National Manufacturing Day—a celebration of modern manufacturing meant to inspire the next generation of manufacturers. During the visit, the congressman met with employees to discuss a range of topics, including the challenges that small high tech businesses face and the role that optical technology and photonics play in solving modern challenges.
“It was a privilege to host Representative Moulton at Optikos,” stated President & CEO, Stephen Fantone, PhD. “His service as a US Marine in Iraq and his pride in the towns and small businesses that make up his district allow him to bring a unique perspective to his work on the Armed Services and Small Business Committees. We appreciate the interest he showed in our work in photonics and in the challenges that Optikos faces as a manufacturer and exporter of this technology.”
Rep. Moulton and Optikos CTO David Imrie, PhD, reviewing Meridian Camera Testing Instrument
Optikos Corporation’s activities are centered around utilizing photonics in new and innovative ways, such as improving healthcare with medical diagnostic tools and keeping our servicemen and women safe with improved performance of night vision, thermal imaging and missile seeker technologies.
The Company employs 46 full-time people—44 at its Wakefield, MA headquarters. Optikos has a strong regional commitment with ties to local suppliers and educational institutions and exports its products and services worldwide.
“Our economy in northeast Massachusetts depends on innovative manufacturers like Optikos,” said Moulton. “On National Manufacturing Day, we celebrate the Commonwealth’s strong manufacturing base and the good-paying jobs this industry produces. As a member of the Small Business Committee, I will continue working to strengthen our local workforce and implement the Make It In America plan to expand this growing sector.”
Rep. Moulton meets with CEO Stephen Fantone, PhD and Optikos staff
“Our staff enjoyed meeting with Congressman Moulton. His background in physics and science made this a particularly engaging visit and discussion and helped Optikos increase awareness and support for the National Photonics Initiative and the importance of STEM education in providing a capable workforce.”
Through the National Photonics Initiative and its support of STEM education, Optikos is committed to raising awareness about photonics and to advancing those areas that are critical to maintaining US competitiveness and national security and bringing back thousands of US jobs that are supported by photonics-enabled technologies.
