Since the implosion of the tech and dot com bubbles in 2001, the field of photonics has undergone a massive transformation that is largely unappreciated by policy makers and the public. Once exclusively associated with telecommunications, photonics is increasing important in a diverse range of sectors from aerospace and automotive to environmental technologies and health.
Canada has nearly 400 companies that produce photonics products generating $4.5 billion in annual revenue. Yet the vast majority of firms is small and find it challenging to remain on the cutting edge.
Enter the Canadian Photonics Fabrication Centre (CPFC), an innovative industry-focused facility situated in Ottawa’s east end (see page 3. Now in its fourth year of full operation, the CPFC has long enough track record to demonstrate that it is having a dramatic and positive impact on the growth and competitiveness of the sector.
Both the CPFC and the overall photonics sector are the focus of new reports that outline the opportunities and challenges they face in the future. They come as the CPFC seeks renewed funding to continue assisting companies develop and validate innovative products.
Evidence suggests that Canada may be losing ground to competing nations that have recognized photonics as an integral part of their industrial innovation strategies. Canada must do the same. Policy makers would be well advised to seek out the reports and provide a forceful response that ensures the future viability and competitiveness of the sector and its clusters of strength across the country.
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