As many countries struggle with reopening or continuing the restrictions on travel and face coverings, I had the pleasure of traveling this summer and seeing colleagues I have not seen in over a year. One of my many stops included Optica headquarters; what a delight to see some of the staff. One of the surprises was seeing an inspirational collection of photos in the conference room. These photos are not only stunning, but they are also a wonderful representation of optics and photonics. We know that advances in optics increase quality of life in so many ways. Additionally, images that represent an element of optics and photonics are artistic and beautiful. I remember hearing a talk from a longtime colleague of mine, Marc Himel, on “What would life be like without optics?” It is a talk that everyone should hear to appreciate fully the impact of our industry on everyday life.

The other part of my trip included meetings that offered time for a visit with a colleague. We have only known each other a short period of time. However, I feel like we have known each other for years. Our conversations varied from our common work to social and life topics. He shared a story with me about his career path and an interest in getting a PhD. The story was fascinating, but the theme was the desire to make a difference. This is an individual who has mentored and influenced more people than most. He leads, and has led, various companies that have made a difference to our safety and quality of life. He could not have done so without drive, focus, and a desire to make a difference. You do not need a PhD to make an impact on individuals or a community. He recently wrote a note to his company about perspective. It was well thought out, and in this note he referenced an interview where he was asked, “How did you go from a cartographer to a CEO of a $7B company?” He goes on to say he “believes he mapped out his career (no pun intended) and followed a well-thought-out strategy, but the reality is that his own career journey was highlighted by an unplanned mixture of hard work, luck, and serendipity.” The PhD was a goal but unplanned events, timing, cost of education, and job options led to a different career and educational path.

Some of the most talented and creative individuals I have known are not professors or PhDs. I hate to think about how many discoveries, techniques, theories, best practices, and experiments do not get published either in refereed journals, through patents, other articles, or through company newsletters. Work and some discoveries go unrecognized because someone is not supported by their organization to publish, does not have enough time to write a paper or thinks the concept will not make an impact. I would like to take this opportunity to encourage you to follow your passions. When you have interesting ideas, I encourage you and others to submit your concepts for publication. I know my new year’s resolution is to carve out more time for writing and finishing articles. Applied Optics and Engineering and Laboratory Notes both provide avenues for the community to share their discoveries and techniques, and I hope you will be inspired to contribute.

Happy New Year!