Optical fiber technology and its many applications can be a source of economic growth for South Carolina.

Around 100 photonics-based companies already are creating an industry cluster that stretches across the Carolinas.

“It’s an industry with tremendous growth potential for our region,” said John Ballato, a Clemson University materials science and engineering professor. “The expanding market for optical fiber and other photonics-related technologies offers numerous possibilities for new high-paying and homegrown jobs.