We started Quang’s birthday (happy birthday) with a site visit to Coherent. Coherent is a very different company from the ones we have visited so far, as it deals with a lot of very technical and complex manufacturing. They are partnered with many different companies, and supply parts for them, including things you use every day, such as lasers for cars and phones. The coolest part of the presentation for me was when he talked about how they make the Face ID sensors in phones. I didn’t know how they worked before, but they basically use laser sensors to scan the shape of your face to unlock your phone. This is just one aspect of what they do, as the lasers they make have many other applications such as those in the medical and industrial fields.
Another huge part what they do is producing advanced ceramics, and thermoelectric components. The thermoelectric components are very cool tools, and one specific application they talked about was for powering devices for oil pipes in Alaska. Since the pipes are hot to keep the oil flowing, and the outside is cold, the thermoelectric components use the temperature difference to send voltage which powers certain monitors for the oil transport. During the tour, our guide started to go in depth about the science about why they have to angle glass for their optic fibers. He referenced angle of refraction which I recalled learning about in physics 2, which made me feel smart. I impressed myself because I was able to semi-follow what he was talking about.
Their factory obviously uses lots of energy and power, and they try to do this sustainability by using about 50% of their electricity from renewable sources. They also have solar panels on the roof of the factory.
We didn’t talk much about the work environment, however it seemed like everyone was extra focused on their job, and it felt much more serious that the other companies we have been to. I noticed a lot of workers that were collaborating with each other. They also mentioned the fact that there was a gym on site for employees health and well being. The company right now is highly invested in future markets, as they are making very advanced materials, too advanced for current industries. In addition, they are expanding their factory and just opened a new branch of their facility. Im not a business major, but I think that if they knew about the onset of tariffs they would have delayed the expansion because tarriffs will increase costs and the expansion is also very expensive.
After our tour, we had lunch and then went back to the hotel to get ready for sports games with UEF! When we got there, we all sang happy birthday to Quang, he blew out the candles then we went to the gym to play soccer. The game was lots of fun, and the UEF team was very good, way better than we were. I lost track of the score, but I’m pretty sure we lost. On the sidelines, we had fun singing songs and cheering on our teammates.