Today we visited the manufacturing company Coherent. Things they manufacture are different electrical parts used to manufacture lasers. Some examples would be computer chips, optical lenses, and temperature cooling material. Coherent is a company that was founded in the United States, but have expanded their operations to several other countries like Vietnam, Singapore, and China because it is cheaper to produce the product. In fact, in recent years, Coherent has been aggressively expanding their operations into new territory. 

During the tour, I got to learn some interesting things about Coherent. For example, something that surprised me is that the materials they use to make the parts are actually still made in the United States in Delaware. I also thought they had a really good employee culture. During our tour all the employees went on break for lunch together. Also, in the new building they are constructing they are designing a break room for the employees to hang out and play pool. 

In recent events, the United States has issued tariffs for countries like Vietnam. Although this will impact Coherent’s operations I don’t think that it will impact it enough to put a stop to their expansion.