CEO – AdvR
As CEO of AdvR, I lead the company’s strategic direction and commercial growth, helping strengthen our position within the photonics and quantum technology sectors. My focus is on combining AdvR’s expertise in nonlinear optics with commercial strategy, strategic partnerships, and product innovation to support the development of next-generation technologies. Working across the Hawthorn Photonics group, I help expand our presence in key markets while bringing together the group’s combined research, manufacturing, and systems expertise to develop innovative solutions for real-world applications.
Main Areas of Expertise
My background is in biomedical engineering, optics, and photonics. I studied Biomedical Engineering at Vanderbilt University and the University of Rochester before completing my Ph.D. at Duke University. This technical foundation led to a career focused on advanced optical systems, imaging technologies, and the commercialisation of emerging photonics solutions.
I began my career at Thorlabs in New Jersey, working in Product Management for Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) systems and swept source laser products. Over twelve years, I helped commercialise OCT imaging systems and VCSEL-based swept laser sources while later moving into the leadership role, Head of Strategic Marketing, Corporate Development and Acquisitions. During this period I led strategic partnerships, tradeshows, technical support initiatives, and the acquisition and integration of five companies.
I later joined Infleqtion (formerly ColdQuanta) in Colorado, where I led the commercial development of the company’s Quantum Matter Platforms based on Bose–Einstein Condensate technologies. This experience gave me a strong understanding of the rapidly evolving quantum technology sector and the important role optical components and photonics integration play in enabling quantum systems.
In 2025, following Hawthorn Photonics’ acquisition of AdvR, I joined the company as CEO to help drive the next stage of growth and innovation across the business.
Hobbies & Interests
Outside of work, I enjoy biking, especially when it includes a stop for coffee and card games. I am a big fan of playing games, crafts, and watching sports, NHL hockey especially. I am a sucker for animals, especially seeing them in the wild. If I made time, I’d cook more, but for now, I am happy simply eating good food! Big family trips have been a tradition as a kid and still now as a parent. I love travelling. I don’t want to just visit; I want to immerse myself wherever I am.
Academic Achievements
I hold three patents and was part of the team recognised with both an SPIE Prism Award and inclusion in TIME’s Best Inventions for the development of Quantum Matter Platform technologies.
Batchelor's Degree, Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University
Master’s Degree, Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester
PhD Biomedical Engineering, Duke University