Media Coverage
Breault Research Organization in the News
2009
Why the world is watching Tucson
BizTucson, March 2, 2009
Breault Research Organization was mentioned in a story about local start-up companies that have brought international exposure to Tucson. Highlighted industries included biotech, optics, pharmaceuticals, aerospace and defense, and solar energy. Copyright BizTucson, March 2, 2009. All rights reserved.
Driving Tucson Optics
BizTucson, February 27, 2009
Breault Research Organization founder and president Robert Breault was profiled as one of "six global visionaries" who have taken their local expertise to international audiences. Breault, who has inspired the creation of more than three dozen optics clusters in the United States and abroad, said international outreach is "not just a wish. It's going to take direction, planning and driving force." Copyright BizTucson, Feb. 27, 2009. All rights reserved.
2008
Optics industry in Tucson seeks to regain focus
Arizona Daily Star, December 28, 2008
BRO founder Robert Breault, dubbed the "Johnny Appleseed" of optics-industry development efforts around the world - and who is also chairman and founder of the Optics Valley Cluster of the Southern Arizona Tech Council - said he plans to spin off 100 startup companies from technologies developed at the three Arizona universities. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, Dec. 28, 2008. All rights reserved.
Build a strong base for Malaysian optics industry
Business Times Online, November 18, 2008
The Malaysian state of Penang can be a player in the high-tech optics industry, but must prepare its workforce and invest in state-of-the-art equipment at the university level, said Robert Breault. The BRO chairman, who was in the Southeast Asian country at the invitation of the Malaysian Industrial Development Authority (MIDA), said Penang "has the attributes of an LED Valley." Copyright Business Times Online, Nov. 18, 2008. All rights reserved.
Tucson firm to receive award for collider work
Arizona Daily Star, October 16, 2008
Robert Breault, president of the Arizona Optics Industry Association, commented on a European award given to a local company, Composite Mirror Applications. He said that the award, from the European Organization for Nuclear Research, will boost Tucson in the eyes of the international optics community. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, Oct. 16, 2008. All rights reserved.
Canon USA Inc. links with UA, looks to tech park
Arizona Daily Star, August 28, 2008
BRO founder Robert Breault was quoted in a story about imaging giant Canon USA Inc.'s negotiations to establish a research-and-development center at the UA Science and Technology Park. "It's a huge deal," he said. "[Four decades ago] the hope was we'd get a Kodak or a Canon to set up shop in Tucson. Now we do." Copyright Arizona Daily Star, Aug. 28, 2008. All rights reserved.
Optical company will close facility
Arizona Daily Star, August 22, 2008
BRO founder Robert Breault, chairman of the local optics cluster, was quoted in a story about the impending closure of Aurora Optical Inc. - which came on the heels of a planned layoff of 80 employees at another local optics company, Spectra-Physics. "Every one that leaves taints the valley," he said, adding that retaining a skilled workforce will keep Tucson attractive to the worldwide optics industry. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, Aug. 22, 2008. All rights reserved.
2007
Congresswoman Giffords pushes for boost in foreign worker visas
Arizona Daily Star, November 29, 2007
Breault Research Organization hosted a gathering of 40 optics-industry representatives, as well as U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, on the topic of high-tech worker visas. Industry leaders said that capping the number of visas at 65,000 means the vast majority of U.S. university-educated foreign nationals must return to their native countries to find work. Giffords used the occasion to announce that she would introduce visa-reform legislation by the end of the year. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, Nov. 29, 2007. All rights reserved.
Breault represented on Arizona group's Ireland visit
Phoenix Business Journal, November 6, 2007
Breault CEO Kathleen Perkins participated in a Science Foundation Arizona trip to Ireland, during which the group explored the Irish university system and business community, with an eye toward public-private partnerships between the two nations. Copyright Phoenix Business Journal, Nov. 6, 2007. All rights reserved.
Breault wins best honors in Wells Fargo Copper Cactus awards
Inside Tucson Business, October 19, 2007
Eight small businesses were honored with Wells Fargo Copper Cactus Awards at the 10th annual dinner celebration, with BRO winning in the community service category - which recognizes businesses that have invested in the community through volunteerism, in-kind or cash contributions, or support of non-profit organizations. The selection process started with more than 460 nominations. Copyright Inside Tucson Business, Oct. 19, 2007. All rights reserved.
Question & Answer with Kathleen Perkins
Tucson Weekly, October 18, 2007
The city's alternative weekly newspaper interviewed Breault Research Organization CEO Kathleen Perkins about women's role in the sciences, and her efforts to encourage more women to enter high-tech careers in engineering or software development. Copyright Tucson Weekly, Oct. 18, 2007. All rights reserved.
BRO CEO and Bio5 Institute come together to encourage female scientists
Arizona Daily Star, October 1, 2007
Breault Research Organization CEO Kathleen Perkins, cited as one of "five influential women" in the local scientific community, participated in a panel discussion on the topic of encouraging future female leaders in science and technology. The event was hosted by the Arizona Technology Council, and the University of Arizona's Bio5 Institute. The latter creates science, education and industry partnerships in the disciplines of agriculture, medicine, pharmacy, basic science and engineering. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, Oct. 1, 2007. All rights reserved.
Breault's Perkins named to international optics panel
Arizona Daily Star, September 1, 2007
Kathleen Perkins, CEO for Breault Research Organization, was named to the board of directors of the International Society for Optical Engineering (SPIE) for a three-year term. She was quoted as saying that she intends to help the optics community "to increase general understanding of ... what optical-science ventures can mean for capital development in today's challenging markets." Copyright Arizona Daily Star, Sept. 1, 2007. All rights reserved.
Breault a Copper Cactus finalist
Tucson Citizen, August 29, 2007
Breault Research Organization was one of eight Southern Arizona businesses recognized for making a contribution to community service, when it was named a finalist for the 2007 Wells Fargo Copper Cactus Awards. The awards recognize outstanding small businesses in Southern Arizona. Copyright Tucson Citizen, Aug. 29, 2007. All rights reserved.
BRO nets Raytheon Missile Systems' research partner award
Arizona Daily Star, August 29, 2007
Raytheon Missile Systems presented its Small Business Innovation Research Partner Award to Breault Research Organization. The annual award recognizes companies that excel in partnering with Raytheon. The U.S. Department of Defense's SBIR program funds early-stage research and development projects at small technology companies. Raytheon is collaborating with Breault on several small business contracts. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, Aug. 29, 2007. All rights reserved.
University of Arizona leads the pack in physical sciences
Inside Tucson Business, June 8, 2007
When the National Science Foundation ranked the University of Arizona the nation's No. 1 university for attracting research dollars for physical sciences, financial journalists sought out BRO for comment. "Anytime the University of Arizona gets more recognition in areas of technical research, it benefits the community," noted Breault CEO Kathleen Perkins. "When on a worldwide scale, people hear about the University of Arizona, it makes scientists want to come here." Copyright Inside Tucson Business, June 8, 2007. All rights reserved.
Reform vital for foreign worker visa program
Tucson Citizen, June 4, 2007
BRO founder Robert Breault was quoted in an opinion article about the federal government's decision to limit the number of work visas awarded to foreigners. He decried the move "catastrophic" for industries in need of skilled and highly educated foreign workers. Copyright Tucson Citizen, June 4, 2007. All rights reserved.
Saving young scientists key to Tucson's future
Tucson Citizen, May 5, 2007
Breault CEO Kathleen Perkins was billed as one of the "independent thinkers" among the 159-member delegates for the civic-improvement-minded Tucson Regional Town Hall. She spoke of the need to keep young scientists from leaving Tucson, calling them the "backbone of your high-technology." Copyright Tucson Citizen, May 5, 2007. All rights reserved.
Breault takes on Massachusetts partner
Arizona Daily Star, May 3, 2007
Breault Research Organization entered into a formal partnership with Concord, Mass.-based SolidWorks Corp., the maker of SolidWorks 3D Modeling Engine. The move makes BRO part of the Massachusetts company's distributor network. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, May 3, 2007. All rights reserved.
Visa shortage hurting Southern Arizona's high tech firms
Tucson Citizen, April 20, 2007
BRO founder Robert Breault was quoted in a story about the U.S. government's decision to cap H-1B foreign-worker visas at 65,000 - and to unexpectedly stop accepting applications altogether in April. He said that the United States "lives on innovation and entrepreneurship, and when we get dumbed down [by limiting the numbers of highly trained foreign workers] then the U.S. economy will be less competitive." Copyright Tucson Citizen, April 20, 2007. All rights reserved.
International delegates offered snapshot of Tucson technology
Inside Tucson Business, March 26, 2007
Representatives from Canada's Business Development Office - including technology business leaders - traveled to Tucson to tour the University of Arizona's Science and Technology Park and meet with local optics and photonics industry officials. "These are the kind of connections you want in place," said BRO founder Robert Breault, a longtime proponent of networking for buyers and sellers of emerging technologies. Copyright Inside Tucson Business, March 26, 2007. All rights reserved.
Moving Up: Kimberly Matty promoted to VP of global sales
Arizona Daily Star, January 15, 2007
Kimberly Matty, who joined BRO in 2006 as director of international sales for BRO Software Applications, was promoted to vice president of global sales. She will lead a team of sales representatives and engineers that support BRO's Advanced Systems Analysis Program (ASAP) in more than 35 countries. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, Jan. 15, 2007. All rights reserved.
2006
Tucsonan to lead state department of commerce
Tucson Citizen, December 13, 2006
Robert Breault, co-chair of the Arizona Optics Industry Association, was quoted in an article about the gubernatorial selection of Tucson businesswoman Jan Lesher to lead the Arizona Department of Commerce. "She's been heavily involved in business and education," he said. "She knows how they work together." Copyright Tucson Citizen, Dec. 13, 2006. All rights reserved.
Excellence in innovation ... again
Tucson Citizen, December 7, 2006
Breault Research Organization's Kathleen Perkins received the Ed Denison Business Leader of the Year Award, making her a finalist for the Governor's Celebration of Innovation Award. Copyright Tucson Citizen, Dec. 7, 2006. All rights reserved.
Innovators prepare for next Canada mission
Inside Tucson Business, October 27, 2006
As Tucson and Phoenix researchers and research company representatives prepared for a trade mission to Canada - aimed at exploring ways to take technology to the marketplace - the press sought out BRO founder Robert Breault for comment. Cited as CEO of Tucson's leading optics company, Breault said that face-to-face networking is "like a Leggo set - put enough pieces together and you can build a castle." The meetings derived from a 2003 Memorandum of Understanding between the University of Arizona and Carlton University in Ottawa (Canada.) Copyright Inside Tucson Business, Oct. 27, 2006. All rights reserved.
Real estate: Tucson's recent commercial sales and leases
Arizona Daily Star, August 8, 2006
The 43,119-square-foot office building that houses offices for Breault Research Organization, as well as DEX Media, was purchased by Los Angeles-based La Mirada LLC for $6 million. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, Aug. 8, 2006. All rights reserved.
Cancer researchers use BRO program to analyze treatments
Inside Tucson Business, July 28, 2006
Researchers are testing light-activated drugs and their ability to fight cancer at the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University. The advanced systems analysis program, which measures a new form of radiation treatment called "photodynamic therapy," was developed by Tucson's Breault Research Organization. The system enables researchers to create virtual organs and analyze their radiation absorption. Copyright Inside Tucson Business, July 28, 2006. All rights reserved.
BRO lauded for tongue-in-cheek software ads
Arizona Daily Star, June 17, 2006
Industry news and notes: The American Marketing Association bestowed its Print Advertising Campaign Award on Breault Research Organization. The award lauded the optics company's series of humorous advertisements about its Advanced Systems Analysis Program (ASAP) software product. The ads appeared in international optics trade publications. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, June 17, 2006. All rights reserved.
Tucson tech firm attracts major venture support
Inside Tucson Business, June 2, 2006
Breault Research Organization was mentioned in an article about Tucson-based VioViligant's $4 million in venture capital support for its move from the lab to the marketplace. The project's chief executive officer will be Deward Manzer, former president of Moltech Corp. and BRO. Mark Fink, former assembly systems developer for Raytheon Missile Systems, and BRO, will be a company manager. Copyright Inside Tucson Business, June 2, 2006. All rights reserved.
Support for optics entrepreneurs in New York needs to move quickly
photonics.com, February 17, 2006
BRO founder Robert Breault spoke at the annual meeting of the Rochester (N.Y.) Regional Photonics Cluster, which has about 110 member companies. He told the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle that the city must support entrepreneurship to create jobs and maintain its competitiveness in the optics industry. "It's as if you have diamonds and fist-sized nuggets of gold just lying on the ground here," he said. "It would be a shame if people elsewhere picked them up instead of you." Copyright photonics.com, Feb. 17, 2006. All rights reserved.
2005
Tucson regional economic opportunities incorporates tech development programs
Arizona Daily Star, November 30, 2005
The Southern Arizona Tech Council started merging its business-development functions into the region's new economic-development agency, Tucson Regional Economic Opportunities, Inc. (TREO). BRO founder Robert Breault, co-chairman of the Arizona Optics Association, told the newspaper that science business clusters will benefit from a more focused TREO effort, while maintaining their own independent voices. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, Nov. 30, 2005. All rights reserved.
R&D Magazine to honor UA Dean
Arizona Daily Star, October 27, 2005
Robert Breault, founder and chairman of BRO, is cited noting that the achievements of Jim Wyant, Dean of the University of Arizona's College of Optical Sciences have made the manufacturing of high-quality silicon semiconductors easier and cheaper. The article is about Dean Wyant receiving an R&D Magazine's 2005 R&D 100 award, which honor "the most technologically significant products introduced into the marketplace. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, October 20, 2005. All rights reserved.
BRO cited as model business by city council candidate
Inside Tucson Business, October 25, 2005
An opinion piece written by City Council candidate Nina Trasoff (winner in the November 2005 election) praised Breault Research Organization as one example of local businesses that "bring dollars to Tucson and provide good jobs here at home." She also suggested using such organizations as "models of how we grow our economy." Copyright Inside Tucson Business, Oct. 25, 2005. All rights reserved.
Nurture optics biz ops between Arizona and the UK
Inside Tucson Business, October 17, 2005
Breault Research Organization founder and chief executive officer Robert Breault was invited to speak before the British-Arizona Business Council. His talk focused on opportunities for optical-science partnerships between the United Kingdom and Southern Arizona. Copyright Inside Tucson Business, Oct. 17, 2005. All rights reserved.
4 Nobel laureates will be in Tucson
Arizona Daily Star, October 13, 2005
Kathleen Perkins, CEO of BRO, is cited commenting on the number and caliber of scientists speaking at and attending the Optical Society of America's 2005 annual conference, held in Tucson. BRO is mentioned as a conference sponsor. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, October 13, 2005. All rights reserved.
New Zealander here to develop optics link
Tucson Citizen, August 31, 2005
Robert Breault, founder and chairman of BRO, is mentioned as one of the Tucson business leaders who met with Rob Taylor, New Zealand's consul general in Los Angeles. Mr. Taylor visited Tucson to meet with university, high-tech industry, and government leaders in search of economic development ties between New Zealand and the U.S. Copyright Tucson Citizen, August 31, 2005. All rights reserved.
To succeed, learn the customer's customs, language
Tucson Citizen, July 13, 2005
John Schweyen, BRO account manager for Japan, discusses the need to learn an international customer's language and culture to better serve them. After attempting to open a market in Japan with limited success, he received extensive training in Japanese. This investment helped earn greater respect from Japanese businesses and helped BRO significantly expand its Japanese presence.
Tech Files
Arizona Daily Star, June 23, 2005
Robert Breault, founder and chairman of BRO, is mentioned as one of the community leaders joining Tucson Mayor Bob Walkup in an economic development tour of England intended to foster commerce between Tucson and key international cities. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, June 23, 2005. All rights reserved.
Singapore tech link could mean jobs here
Tucson Citizen, May 19, 2005
Robert Breault, founder and chairman of BRO, is quoted discussing relationships developed with companies during BRO's participation in a Singapore trade conference, including both direct business and reciprocal visits to Tucson by participating companies. Copyright Tucson Citizen, May 19, 2005. All rights reserved.
Business Briefs - Breault sponsors award at engineer's design day
Inside Tucson Business, April 18, 2005
BRO is cited as sponsoring the "BRO Best Overall Optics Award" presented at the University of Arizona's College of Science "Engineering Design Day" to recognize work by senior-level undergraduates. Copyright Inside Tucson Business, April 18, 2005. All rights reserved.
Oz Optics Ltd. of Ottawa plans plant at UA park
Arizona Daily Star, April 14, 2005
Robert Breault, founder and chairman of BRO and Kathleen Perkins, CEO of BRO are quoted as leaders in the Tucson optics industry discussing the construction of a manufacturing plant in Tucson by Oz Optics, Ltd., an Ottowa, Canada-based optics company. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, April 14, 2005. All rights reserved.
UA science students add a bit of business to their curriculum
Arizona Daily Star, March 21, 2005
Ford Burkhart, foreign news editor at The New York Times, discussed with a UA science class how scientists become communicators. Kathleen Perkins, CEO of BRO, talked with students about turning academic research into product development. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, March 21, 2005. All rights reserved.
New chip may change how data exchanged
Tucson Citizen, February 18, 2005
Tucson high-tech companies are trying to figure out how the Cell Processor chip could be used to stimulate their business. Bob Breault, co-chairman of Arizona Optics Industry Association said, "Cars could use the chip to allow real-time communication between vehicles in a given area." Copyright Tucson Citizen, February 18, 2005. All rights reserved.
Clusters in Southern Arizona
Inside Tucson Business, February 7, 2005
Robert Breault, founder and chairman of BRO, is quoted discussing the active role Tucson's Optics Cluster plays in promoting Tucson internationally as "Optics Valley". The Optics Cluster has more than 200 member companies and is committed to maintaining three key components of Tucson's optics economy: defense, university-based research, and astronomy. Copyright Inside Tucson Business, February 7, 2005. All rights reserved.
Tucson's high-tech dreams face hurdles
Tucson Citizen, February 3, 2005
Tucson has formidable hurdles to overcome to become the high-tech business hub leaders are striving for. Diane Matsumoto, a software engineer at BRO, said she sees the number of technical jobs in Tucson growing, but "there are few companies that offer the cutting-edge technology and competitive salary that attracts young engineers. Copyright Tucson Citizen, February 3, 2005. All rights reserved.
Youth drive high-tech economies
Tucson Citizen, February 2, 2005
A central area where young professionals work and congregate, such as in Austin, Texas, seen as key to attracting qualified work force. Michael Stevenson, marketing director at BRO, said, "When you're in Austin or Savannah, you park your car and walk the attractions. Get enough of them within walking distance of one another and you'll draw young people." Copyright Tucson Citizen, February 2, 2005. All rights reserved.
Cartoons touted to learn science
Tucson Citizen, January 28, 2005
Nobel laureate told an audience at BRO that cartoons may be a key to better science education. Images that can quickly transmit information may give novice learners an immediate grasp of realities that dry formulas might obscure. Copyright Tucson Citizen, January 28, 2005. All rights reserved.
Governor pushes big tax break for small firms
Tucson Citizen, January 15, 2005
Gov. Napolitano wants three business tax cuts, including virtually eliminating personal property taxes on small business. Kathleen Perkins CEO of BRO, said "If the tax cut proposals are approved, it could lead to expansion and more jobs at BRO." Copyright Tucson Citizen, January 15, 2005. All rights reserved.
2004
Pentagon spending in Arizona surges
Tucson Citizen, September 15, 2004
The Department of Defense is spending more money in Arizona as items developed and produced here are increasinbly used by the military in Iraq and elsewhere. Local defense contractors, such as BRO, could see growth with new defense contracts. Copyright Tucson Citizen, September 15, 2004. All rights reserved.
Tucson firm wins federal award for guarding ideas
Tucson Citizen, September 2, 2004
"Tucson's strong lock on optical technology and BRO's efforts to safeguard its designs are partly why the firm was honored", said Kathleen Perkins, CEO. Copyright Tucson Citizen, September 2, 2004. All rights reserved.
U.S. patent protection called key in free trade
Arizona Daily Star, September 2, 2004
Undersecretary of the U.S. Commerce Department, Jon Dudas, presents BRO with the Export Achievement Award for their work in protecting patents and other intellectual property. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, September 2, 2004. All rights reserved.
Raytheon, optics industry bond a mutual benefit
Inside Tucson Business, July 30, 2004
Raytheon and the Arizona Optics Industry Association are collaborating on the creation of a "fast-response team". "The expertise is here", said Bob Breault, founder of BRO and president of the association. Copyright Inside Tucson Business, July 30, 2004. All rights reserved.
Marketing each other
Inside Tucson Business, July 2, 2004
When Kathleen Perkins, CEO of BRO, sends a gift to a customer overseas, she thinks local. "All of it is designed and produced locally", Perkins said, "to guarantee a local flair". Copyright Inside Tucson Business, July 2, 2004. All rights reserved.
Banking partnership crucial for business growth
Inside Tucson Business, June 21, 2004
Building a good banking relationship is vital to growing a small business was the message at the Arizona Optics Industry Assocation May meeting. "Banking is very different [abroad], and you need to have somebody who can talk to financial people there", said Bob Breault of BRO. Copyright Inside Tucson Business, June 21, 2004. All rights reserved.
Firms fighting terror: Homeland security
Arizona Daily Star, May 30, 2004
Arizona businesses are attracing millions of dollars in contracts for items related to homeland security. "Homeland security needs are now", said Kathleen Perkins, CEO of BRO. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, May 30, 2004. All rights reserved.
Eastern frontier beckons
Inside Tucson Business, May 24, 2004
Opportunity knocks in Eastern Asia and some Tucson businesses hope to capitalize. "American companies have to work harder to establish a reputation in Asian markets", said Kathleen Perkins, CEO of BRO. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, May 24, 2004. All rights reserved.
Conferences draw high tech officials to Tucson
Inside Tucson Business, April 22, 2004
Photon Forum attracted high-level technology official in the optics industry. "The Forum lends itself to really high-level exploratory conversations", said Kathleen Perkins, CEO of BRO. Copyright Inside Tucson Business, April 22, 2004. All rights reserved.
Photon Forum brings top technology executives to Tucson
Inside Tucson Business, April 9, 2004
The optics forum is a partnership between BRO and national optics publication, Laser Focus World. Kathleen Perkins, CEO of BRO, said, "We've got the right kind of people coming to the conference." Copyright Inside Tucson Business, April 9, 2004. All rights reserved.
Photon Forum focus is imaging technology
Arizona Daily Star, April 8, 2004
"The Forum allowed CEOs from companies including Sony Corp., Roche Pharmaceuticals and JDS Uniphas Corp. to hear presentations on cutting-eduge optical technologies and to mingle with venture capitalists", said Kathleen Perkins, CEO of BRO. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, April 8, 2004. All rights reserved.
Optics confab to look at bioscience
Arizona Daily Star, March 25, 2004
"Photon Forum 2004", said Michael Stevenson of BRO, "reflects the ever-present and growing nexus between optics and biosciences." Copyright Arizona Daily Star, March 25, 2004. All rights reserved.
Aerospace industry here on cloud 9
Tucson Citizen, January 15, 2004
Bush aims to increases NASA's budget by $1 billion over the next five years. "Most everyone involved in Tucson's space industry is excited about Bush's announcement", said Gary Peterson, technology adviser for BRO. Copyright Tucson Citizen, January 15, 2004. All rights reserved.
Hi-tech advocate touts S. Arizona
Arizona Daily Star, January 9, 2004
Bob Breault, founder of BRO, touts Bob Hagen's tireless support of high-tech economic development and efforts to build Southern Arizona into a technology powerhouse. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, January 9, 2004. All rights reserved.
High-tech delegation visits Israel
Tucson Citizen, November 25, 2004
A Tucson university/business delegation wants to team up with the cradle of Judaism, Christianity and Muslim faith, including Bob Breault founder of BRO. Copyright Tucson Citizen, November 24, 2004. All rights reserved.
From 'clean room' space to 'wet lab'
Arizona Daily Star, October 28, 2004
Kathleen Perkins, CEO of BRO, and Mark Fink, Director of Engineering Services, will speak about BRO and the prospects for co-branding the Tucson region as a "bio-optics" center at the BioIndustry Organization of Southern Arizona. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, October 28, 2004. All rights reserved.
Tucson mission seeks partnerships in Israel
Tucson Citizen, September 30, 2004
Tucson's high-tech sector is looking to hook up with Israel to create partnerships in biotech, IT, aerospace and military fields. Bob Breault, founder of BRO, will travel to Israel to increase the visibility of his optics software firm. Copyright Tucson Citizen, September 30, 2004. All rights reserved.
2003
Beyond Theory
Inside Tucson Business, December 23, 2003
Pierre Meystre may one day be on the list of Nobel prize winners for his work in the still young field of atom optics. "He is working in a very futuristic, esoteric area of optics", said Kathleen Perkins CEO of BRO. Copyright Inside Tucson Business, December 23, 2003. All rights reserved.
Breault lands new optics conference
Inside Tucson Business, December 19, 2003
Industry magazines, OpticsReport and Laser Focus World, will bring a new international optics conference, Photon Forum, to Tucson. Kathleen Perkins, CEO of BRO, expects delegations from 100-200 organizations to attend. Copyright Inside Tucson Business, December 19, 2003. All rights reserved.
Breath test could be disease detector
Arizona Daily Star, December 16, 2003
Someday doctors may be able to diagnose illnesses such as cancer and heart disease by means of a simple breath test. Said Kathleen Perkins, CEO of BRO, "Converging cutting-edge optical technology with biomedical sciences is the next step in creating new diagnostics tools." Copyright Arizona Daily Star, December 16, 2003. All rights reserved.
Focal Point
Inside Tucson Business, December 05, 2003
The University of Arizona Optical Sciences Center remains one of the top centers of activity globably for optics training and research. "BRO hosts more than 250 scientists from around the world each year for training on BRO software products", said Kathleen Perkins, CEO of BRO. Copyright Inside Tucson Business, December 05, 2003. All rights reserved.
Industry publication keeps Tucson optics in the world's eye
Inside Tucson Business, October 23, 2003
Kathleen Perkins is responsible for an increasingly influential publication of her own: OpticsReport. "Our intentions are to be the source of optics information", said Perkins. Copyright Inside Tucson Business, October 23, 2003. All rights reserved.
Planting the seeds
Arizona Daily Star, September 9, 2003
"Many venture captial funds see potential in Tucson's growing tech industries", said Bob Breault, founder of BRO. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, September 9, 2003. All rights reserved.
Breault, Scatter Works collaborate
Inside Tucson Business, August 22, 2003
BRO announced a collaborative working agreement that will provide customers with measurements and expertise from The Scatter Works. "This is an added benefit for our customers", said Kathleen Perkins CEO of BRO. Copyright Inside Tucson Business, August 22, 2003. All rights reserved.
Industry news & notes
Arizona Daily Star, August 11, 2003
OpticsReport, an industry publication by BRO, is offering free email newsletters at www.opticsreport.com. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, August 11, 2003. All rights reserved.
Design software: which package do you need?
Opto & Laser Europe, July/August 2003
Going strong for almost 21 years, ASAP is seen as the industry standard in illumination software. "Almost everything possible in command form can be done through the GUI, says Bob Breault, founder of BRO. Copyright Opto & Laser Europe, July/August 2003. All rights reserved.
Making sense of science
Tucson Citizen, June 30, 2003
Kathleen Perkins' role as CEO of BRO is to add business sense to a science-heavy company. "We are truly international, technically ahead of the curve, but it is not a straight line to profitability." Copyright Inside Tucson Business, June 30, 2003. All rights reserved.
Optics firms, UA look to biotech
Arizona Daily Star, June 12, 2003
Local optics firms are looking to collaborate with University of Arizona researchers on developing optical products for the biotech industries. BRO CEO Kathleen Perkins said the company plans to develop custom image-processing software as part of its ASAP light-analysis program. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, June 12, 2003. All rights reserved.
AZ delegation participates in world's largest biotech conference
Inside Tucson Business, June 2, 2003
Tucson representatives will pitch Arizona as the perfect place for biotech businesses at an upcoming national conference. Copyright Inside Tucson Business, June 2, 2003. All rights reserved.
Sweet smell of success
Opto & Laser Europe, June, 2003
Perfumes to photonics: Kathleen Perkins, CEO of BRO, tells Oliver Graydon about her move into the optics industry and her plans for the firm. Copyright Opto & Laser Europe, June 2003. All rights reserved.
Terror worries, ID fraud likely to aid biometrics
Arizona Daily Star, May 15, 2003
OpticsReport author Michael Stevenson details the history of biometrics and sensor types used for fingerprint identification and facial and eye-scan technologies. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, May 15, 2003. All rights reserved.
Hot date for physicians, physicists
Arizona Daily Star, May 8, 2003
BRO hosts a bio-optics roundtable in technology areas of biotech and optics. Kathleen Perkins, CEO of BRO, said, "The idea behind the invitation-only event is to give medical researchers and optical scientists a chance to compare notes." Copyright Arizona Daily Star, May 8, 2003. All rights reserved.
Business briefs
Optics.org, May 2, 2003
Kathleen Perkins is taking over the reins as new CEO of optical design software developer BRO. Copyright Optics.org, May 2, 2003. All rights reserved.
Three at Breault are promoted
Arizona Daily Star, April 10, 2003
BRO has promoted three management employees as part of a restructuring. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, April 10, 2003. All rights reserved.
Perkins is Breault CEO
Arizona Daily Star, April 1, 2003
Kathleen Perkins is promoted to CEO. Bob Breault, founder of BRO, said Perkins has helped guide BRO's growth since joining the company in 1995. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, April 1, 2003. All rights reserved.
Breault introduces software upgrade
Inside Tucson Business, March 26, 2003
BRO announced version 7.5 of its ASAP optical modeling software. The upgraded features are designed to provide current and potential ASAP software customers with advanced capabilities, speed and usability. Copyright Inside Tucson Business, March 26, 2003. All rights reserved.
Small firms' tech role praised
Arizona Daily Star, March 1, 2003
Bob Breault, founder of BRO, said small high-tech companies have fundamental advantages, "We're more agile and we tend to have innovative people." Copyright Arizona Daily Star, March 1, 2003. All rights reserved.
European optical scientists get look at Tucson program
Arizona Daily Star, February 20, 2003
Optical scientists from across Europe are learning to use a software program designed by BRO. "We were holding a one class a year in Europe but we've bumped it up to two", said Jennifer Patton, marketing manager for BRO. Copyright Arizona Daily Star, February 20, 2003. All rights reserved.
In Military Towns, Contractors' Windfall Is Not Doing Much Trickling Down
New York Times, February 17, 2003
"The Breault Research Organization, an optical engineering and software company, makes a part for the Tomahawk. Promoting Tucson as the site of an ''Optics Valley'' sibling of Silicon Valley, the company's chairman, Robert P. Breault, leads an association that has drawn scores of optical engineering companies to town." Copyright New York Times, February 17, 2003. All rights reserved.
2002
World's best scientists flock to Breault for system training
Inside Tucson Business, December 6, 2002
Light Work
Inside M.E. Magazine, December, 2002
Optics: Cluster connections
Inside Tucson Business, November 1, 2002
Software turns spotlight on illumination design
Laser Focus World, October, 2002
September 11 - Local Impact
Tucson Citizen, September 4, 2002
ASAP 7.1 Optical Modeling Software
Optics.org, April 5, 2002
Bioindustry: Tucson's future
Tucson Citizen, March 12, 2002
Optics Valley still holds international spotlight
Inside Tucson Business, February 8, 2002
GTSPED developing ID separate from GTEC
Tucson Citizen, February 7, 2002
2001
Tucson Industry News & Notes
Arizona Daily Star, November 3, 2001
Cross-border connection
Arizona Daily Star, October 27, 2001
TCC site of huge optics meeting
Tucson Citizen, September 14, 2001
SMALL BUSINESS
Tucson Citizen, June 25, 2001
Small business owners share secrets of success
Inside Tucson Business, May 18, 2001
Clusters to cluster at world conference
Tucson Citizen, April 19, 2001
Tucson Around the World
Tucson Citizen, April 9, 2001
'Man on a mission' is his industry's passionate advocate
Arizona Daily Star, February 25, 2001
2000
Optics firms court high schoolers
Arizona Daily Star, September 9, 2000
Conference city's bid to retain optics title
Tucson Citizen, September 5, 2000
Ideas in the marketplace
Arizona Daily Star, May 6, 2000
A tour of Optics Valley
Arizona Daily Star, April 29, 2000
'Optics Valley'
Tucson Citizen, April 6, 2000
Local optics
Tucson Citizen, February 22, 2000
State seen as high-tech hot spot
Arizona Daily Star, January 28, 2000
Following Austin's lead
Arizona Daily Star, January 2, 2000
1999...
Construction's clout appears diminished in 'Astronomy Valley'
Arizona Daily Star, January 14, 1999
Arizona gaining in high-tech jobs; ranks 17th in U.S.
Arizona Daily Star, February 9, 1997
Fisba Optik names Breault North American rep
Optics.org, October 13, 1996
5140 attend SPIE Annual Meeting in Denver
Optics.org, August 11, 1996
New CEO takes over at Breault: Switch frees founder for foreign pursuits
Arizona Daily Star, March 16, 1996
Entrepreneur's vision: Tucson company hones optics pitch to investors
Arizona Daily Star, December 3, 1995
Group fosters Optics Valley; Tucson firms enjoying growth
Arizona Daily Star, August 28, 1995
World of optics has its eye on Tucson in June
Arizona Daily Star, May 27, 1995
Bill would give high-tech firms funds
Arizona Daily Star, March 19, 1995
Arizona firms develop ties with 2 federal labs
Arizona Daily Star, December 20, 1993
Workshop to explore marketing high-tech ideas
Arizona Daily Star, March 1, 1993
A dream since childhood has come true for Breault
Arizona Daily Star, January 11, 1993
