Steve Jacobs Memorial Talk
Metrology driving Optics Manufacturing – A Historical Review and Glimpse into the Future
Jessica DeGroote Nelson, Edmund Optics
The talk will be available also on zoom at the link https://rochester.zoom.us/j/97492120843
Abstract
Metrology isn’t just about numbers—it’s the invisible force that has shaped the evolution of manufacturing, transforming what’s possible in precision optics manufacturing. Whether it’s crafting high-performance optics or pushing the boundaries of freeform surfaces, measurement technology has been the key to unlocking innovation.
Join us for a fascinating journey through time as we explore how metrology has revolutionized manufacturing, from the early days of optical fabrication to today’s cutting-edge techniques. Discover how game-changing breakthroughs—like Computer-Numerically-Controlled (CNC) processing, deterministic polishing, and high-resolution interferometry—have paved the way for unprecedented precision.
But we’re not stopping there. The future of manufacturing is unfolding before our eyes with disruptive technologies like additive manufacturing, automated “lights-out” production, and metasurfaces. What’s the next big shift? And how will metrology drive the next 30 years of manufacturing evolution?
Let’s measure the past, shape the future, and redefine what’s possible—together.
Bio
Jessica DeGroote Nelson (Vice President – Precision Optics and Technology Development) joined Edmund Optics in 2022 where she oversees the Precision Optics Business Group and Research and Development. Prior to joining Edmund she was the Director of Technology an Strategy for Optimax where she joined in 2007 after graduating from The Institute of Optics at the University of Rochester with a bachelors, masters and Ph.D. in Optics. Jessica also holds an Executive MBA degree from the Simon School at the University of Rochester. She is also currently an adjunct faculty at The Institute of Optics teaching an undergraduate and graduate course on Optical Fabrication Materials and Testing and at Rochester Institute of Technology’s Saunders School of Business teaching courses on Innovation and Technology Management Strategy as part of their Executive MBA program. Jessica is a fellow member of SPIE and senior member of Optica (formerly OSA). Currently, Jessica is serving on SPIE Board of Directors, Chairman of the Board for AmeriCOM and editor of SPIE's Tutorial Text series.
Parking and location
The talk will be held at UR River Campus, Goergen 101. Parking is available in the lot across the street in Intercampus Drive Lot, and is free for talk attendees (no pass needed).
Pre-talk dinner
A pre-talk dinner will be held at 5:15 pm at the King and I Thailand Cuisine located at 1455 East Henrietta Rd, Rochester, NY 14623. If you would like to attend, please contact the house committee by email to make reservations. Email: house@opticarochester.org
