Vision, Mission and Core Values

Vision

We are the leading global forum for light science and technology.

Mission

Our mission is to promote the generation, application and archiving of knowledge in optics and photonics and to disseminate this knowledge worldwide. The purposes of the Society are scientific, technical and educational. Our commitment to excellence and long-term learning is the driving force behind all its initiatives.

Since 1916, we have been the world’s leading champion for optics and photonics, uniting and educating scientists, engineers, educators, technicians and business leaders worldwide to foster and promote technical and professional development. Through our publications, events and services, we help to advance the science of light by addressing the ongoing need for shared knowledge and innovation.

Optica was founded more than 100 years ago as The Optical Society of America and has evolved into a global enterprise serving a worldwide constituency.

Core Values: i4=1

A global community united in our core values.

Innovation: The process of discovery and innovation must be built on accepted scientific methods and engineering practice.

Integrity: A transparent process to ensure that our content is of the highest quality and meets the standards of our community is essential to maintaining integrity and trust with our global membership.

Inclusivity: Innovation and discovery are better fostered in a more diverse, inclusive global scientific community.

Impact: Our work to support the global optics and photonics community must improve the environment for research and development, elevate science broadly, and tangibly benefit humanity. 

JOIN US !!

Knowledge sharing and networking

Traveling Lecturers

Did you know that Optica has a list of nearly 1,000 professionals who are open to traveling to your university to share their expertise with you? Chapters can tap into this list and invite one (or sometimes two) lecturers each year at no cost to the chapter. That's right, Optica covers lodging and transportation for the lectures (up to $2,000) - what a benefit!

Student Leadership Experience

Each year, students are invited to attend our annual meeting, Frontiers in Optics (FiO). As part of the technical conference, students are supported with special sessions focused on professional development for career advancement. Students complete an application process, but those selected have their transportation, lodging, and conference fee covered by Optica. While this benefit is open to all student members, those affiliated with student chapters receive additional weight during the application process. 

Mentor Match

Let us pair you with an early-career professional who can serve as a dedicated mentor for a period of six months. During that time, you and your mentor will build a battleplan for addressing some of your most important concerns. You can provide feedback in real-time so if your mentor pairing isn't working we'll try to rectify it if possible.