Micro-LAM™ was founded in 2017 as a spinoff from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The company’s origins are deeply rooted in academic research and innovation, with its founder’s thesis serving as the cornerstone for the development of cutting-edge optics and diamond tooling technologies. This academic foundation has been instrumental in shaping Micro-LAM’s mission to redefine precision manufacturing and its relentless pursuit of technological excellence.
The company began with a vision of addressing the growing demand for optics solutions that could handle increasingly complex materials and applications. Through its expertise in laser-assisted machining, M10 Edge™ diamond tooling, and optics manufacturing under the 603 OPTX™ brand, Micro-LAM quickly carved out a niche in the industry. Today, its headquarters in Portage, Michigan, serves as the hub for innovation, while its global presence continues to expand through offices and partnerships in Stevenage, UK; Keene, New Hampshire; and Shanghai, China.
“We think of ourselves as an optics technology company,” says Brian Simon, Chief Operating Officer, “not just a component provider.” This foundational philosophy stems from Micro-LAM’s roots in academia and research. What began as a thesis project has grown into a company that not only manufactures optics and diamond tooling but also develops cutting-edge technologies like the OPTIMUS system for laser-assisted diamond turning.
The OPTIMUS system exemplifies the company’s ability to merge advanced engineering with practical applications. This innovative technology is designed to enhance the precision and efficiency of ultra precision machining, making it possible to work with materials that were previously considered too challenging to machine. The result is a versatile solution that meets the demands of industries ranging from aerospace to medical devices.
“We continue to innovate around new and exotic materials,” Simon explains. “Our solutions are technology-based, enabling us to provide more than just products. We offer tailored answers to some of the most complex challenges our customers face.”
Micro-LAM’s culture is defined by its dedication to innovation and bold thinking. Rather than being bound by traditional approaches, the team actively embraces challenges and seeks unique solutions that others might not consider, setting the company apart in the industry.
This forward-thinking approach is evident in the company’s ability to work with extremely challenging materials and deliver results that push the boundaries of what’s possible in optics manufacturing and diamond tooling. It’s a strategy that has enabled the company to scale globally in less than a decade, with operations spanning North America, Europe, and Asia.
Micro-LAM’s boldness is not just about tackling technical challenges; it’s also about fostering an environment where employees are encouraged to think creatively and take risks. Micro-LAM utilizes the AIM (All Ideas Matter) idea improvement system to harness innovation, and this culture of innovation has led to groundbreaking developments, such as the company’s work on better optics laser turn (BOLT) technology, which significantly reduces subsurface damage and polishing time.
For Micro-LAM, quality is more than a buzzword; it’s a core differentiator. Simon emphasizes, “We pride ourselves on getting it right the first time. Our processes are designed to strive for zero defects, ensuring that our customers receive the highest-quality products and services.”
One standout example of this commitment is the company’s tooling business, which offers what Simon describes as “the fastest turnaround for tool relapping services,” a three-day process that combines superior metrology and innovative techniques to provide unmatched quality and efficiency. This level of attention to detail has propelled the tooling and optics divisions to grow significantly faster than their respective markets.
Micro-LAM’s emphasis on quality extends to its internal processes as well. By fostering a culture of precision and excellence, the company ensures that every product and service meets the highest standards. This meticulous approach not only strengthens customer relationships but also enhances the company’s reputation as a trusted partner in the industry.
Customer testimonials often highlight the seamless integration of Micro-LAM’s products into existing workflows and the significant improvements in efficiency and precision that they enable. In addition to products, Micro-LAM also is a trusted technical partner to its customers, providing manufacturability solutions from the concept to full production phase. These real-world success stories underscore the company’s dedication to delivering solutions that exceed expectations.
Indeed, Micro-LAM’s portfolio of innovations reflects its relentless pursuit of excellence. The company’s proprietary technologies, like BOLT, address key industry challenges such as subsurface damage, which reduces polishing time and improves the overall manufacturing process. “Our goal is to eliminate subsurface damage entirely,” Simon says. “That vision keeps us at the forefront of industry advancements.”
And the company’s innovations are not limited to product development. Micro-LAM actively collaborates with major industry players, including the aerospace and defense sector, to tackle complex projects that demand cutting-edge solutions. These partnerships highlight the company’s ability to adapt its technologies to meet diverse and demanding requirements.
Recent achievements further demonstrate Micro-LAM’s industry leadership. The company has been recognized for its innovative approaches and high quality standards, earning accolades such as being named one of Michigan’s Best and Brightest Companies to Work For and winner in the Best and Brightest Companies to Work For in the Nation, both in 2024. This recognition reflects not only the company’s technical excellence but also its commitment to creating a supportive and dynamic work environment.
“We’re proud to have built a culture that’s hardworking, fun, and creative,” says Simon. “Our cultural accelerator surveys consistently show phenomenal results, validating that our employees feel valued and inspired.”
At the heart of Micro-LAM’s workplace culture is a dedication to collaboration and inclusivity. Employees are encouraged to think creatively, take risks, and contribute to the company’s mission of innovation, and this supportive environment not only attracts top talent but also fosters long-term employee satisfaction and growth. Micro-LAM offers an innovative on-the-job training program for team members called ML-XL Scholarships. The program is based on Micro-LAM’s academic foundation of providing financial incentive scholarships to encourage employees to learn new skills, thereby fostering a flexible and multi-skilled team. This commitment to growth ensures that the company’s workforce remains at the leading edge of the industry.
As Micro-LAM continues to grow, the company is committed to pursuing materials that were previously considered impossible to turn and to advancing technologies that address emerging market needs. “We’re not just doing things the way they’ve always been done,” Simon emphasizes. “By embracing innovation and thinking boldly, we’re creating competitive advantages that allow us to produce optics and tools that are not only better but also faster and more cost-effective.”
The company’s vision for the future thus includes expanding its capabilities in material science and machining technologies. By staying ahead of industry trends and anticipating customer needs, Micro-LAM aims to remain a leader in the optics technology space. Disruptive technology and continuous innovation, the company believes, is the only way to retain and grow cutting-edge manufacturing in the USA.
Simon shares, “We continue to innovate and adapt, ensuring that our technologies meet the ever-changing demands of the market. Whether it’s developing new solutions for the defense sector or refining our existing processes, we’re always looking for ways to improve and grow.”
From its academic beginnings to its current status as a global leader in optics technology, Micro-LAM has consistently demonstrated a commitment to innovation, quality, and bold thinking. By combining innovative engineering and a customer-centric approach, the company has redefined what is possible in precision manufacturing.
With a culture that fosters creativity and collaboration, a portfolio of trailblazing technologies, and a clear vision for the future, Micro-LAM is poised to continue its trajectory of success. Whether you are a potential customer seeking cutting-edge solutions or a professional looking to join a dynamic team, Micro-LAM offers a unique opportunity to be part of something truly extraordinary.
