SPIE is the international society for optics and photonics, dedicated to advancing light-based science and technologies. With a mission to partner with researchers, educators, and industry, SPIE strengthens the global optics and photonics community through conferences, publications, and professional development. Every year, SPIE organizes and sponsors major technical forums, exhibitions, and education programs worldwide, providing a platform for scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs to showcase the latest innovations in various technologies.

Their events bring together over 35,000 professionals from around the globe. SPIE also publishes the SPIE Digital Library, the world’s largest collection of optics and photonics research. This comprehensive resource features over 565,000 papers covering biomedicine, communications, defense, manufacturing, energy, and more.

Committed to supporting the international optics community, SPIE has contributed over $22 million in the past five years through scholarships, educational resources, travel grants, endowed gifts, and public-policy development. With a focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion, SPIE believes in the power of diverse perspectives to foster innovation and solve global challenges. Their membership offers numerous benefits to individuals and organizations, providing resources to stay current and involved in the field.

Recognizing excellence in optics and photonics, SPIE presents Society Awards to individuals who have made significant contributions to advancing the science and technology of light. Driven by the talent and dedication of their members, SPIE's leadership and governance shape the direction of the society, while their advocacy and public policy initiatives aim to support and influence the optics and photonics community worldwide. By connecting minds and advancing what's possible with light, SPIE continues to create a brighter future for the field of optics and photonics