Title: Chief Executive Officer (CEO) & Co-Founder
Professional Role and Leadership
Emily Fehrman Cory serves as the CEO and Co-Founder of Dayton Photonics Systems LLC, a cutting-edge technology company specializing in the commercialization of advanced optical communication systems. She is the principal driving force behind the company’s strategic direction and innovation initiatives. Emily leads the development and deployment of THEIA™ Fiberless Optics System, a proprietary 10 Gbps broadband fiberless optical link technology designed to combine the high performance of fiber optics with the ease and flexibility of fixed wireless connectivity. THEIA™ technology leverages non-mechanical beam steering, space-fed optical phased arrays, and eye-safe laser beams to provide stable, secure, and FCC-license-free broadband solutions that overcome traditional barriers posed by fiber optic installations (e.g., crossing highways, rivers, and railroads).
Under Emily’s leadership, Dayton Photonics is positioning itself to revolutionize the secure communication and broadband network infrastructure sector by offering reliable, electromagnetic interference-resistant connectivity with simplified installation comparable to existing RF systems. The company has actively engaged in partnerships (e.g., MetaLINK Technologies) to expand broadband access in challenging rural areas.
Educational Background and Technical Expertise
Emily holds a Ph.D. in Electro-Optics (Physics) with a focus on nanofabrication and polymer photonic devices, which forms the foundation of her technical expertise and innovative work at Dayton Photonics. Her doctoral research and numerous scholarly publications demonstrate deep knowledge in:
- DNA biopolymer nanoimprint lithography and photonics applications
- Polymeric waveguide electro-optic beam-steering devices
- Advances in freeform and additive manufacturing for photonics
Her education and research have enabled her to transition complex scientific concepts into viable commercial products in the photonics and optical communications industries.
Career Trajectory and Industry Impact
Prior to founding Dayton Photonics, Emily accumulated more than two decades of experience in photonics, including significant leadership roles in government and technology sectors:
- Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL): Served as Chief Technology Advisor for America Makes, the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Institute, where she was deputy program manager and led initiatives in technology transfer, additive manufacturing, and innovation commercialization. Her role at AFRL included establishment of the AFRL Maker Hub, the Air Force's first public-private Maker collaboration environment.
- Faculty of Practice for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at the University of Dayton School of Engineering, contributing to academic-industry integration and technology commercialization efforts.
- Founder and Principal Consultant of Airship Consulting LLC, focusing on empowering tech startups and small businesses in innovation and market strategy.
Emily’s leadership has been recognized in multiple contexts, including:
- Innovation Engineering Blue Belt Certification from Eureka! Ranch (2019), demonstrating proficiency in systematic innovation and problem-solving methodologies.
- America Makes Distinguished Collaborator Award (2016), acknowledging her contributions to additive manufacturing innovation in the defense sector.
- Nomination as a White House Champion of Change for Making in 2016, highlighting her role in supporting maker culture and advanced manufacturing.
Community Engagement and Advocacy
Emily actively participates and holds leadership positions in regional innovation ecosystems:
- Founder and co-lead of Make It Dayton and co-organizer of the Make It Dayton Festival (2015–2020), grassroots initiatives aimed at connecting maker communities and fostering a culture of innovation in the Dayton region.
- Founder and leader of the Southwest Ohio Makerspace Alliance _(2016–2020)_, promoting communication and collaboration among local makerspaces.
- Volunteer mentor for the West Dayton Makerspace Project Co-op (2019–2020).
- Contributor and current Board Chair of The Collaboratory (Dayton, OH), promoting economic empowerment and the Community of Wellbeing initiatives since 2015, emphasizing sustainable community development aligned with technological advancement.
Her active involvement in these initiatives underscores her commitment to both regional economic development and the broader innovation economy.
Publications and Scholarly Contributions
Emily is a published researcher with multiple peer-reviewed papers contributing to the fields of:
- Nanofabrication of biopolymer films for photonics (e.g., “Nanoimprint Lithography of DNA Biopolymer Films,” J Micro-Nanolith MEM, 2013)
- Modified processing techniques enhancing biopolymer performance in optics
- Electro-optic beam steering devices and DNA biopolymer conductive claddings
She has also contributed to government and industry reports, notably co-authoring works on public-private additive manufacturing partnerships under the America Makes initiative.
Recent Developments and Company Vision
As of early 2026, Emily has communicated a strategic pivot for Dayton Photonics that focuses on moving from concept validation to market execution, underscored by internal strategy sessions prioritizing alignment of objectives, resource allocation, and innovative collaboration. Recent company activities include:
- Securing grant funding of $200,000 to advance their B-Link free communication technology.
- Preparing for angel investor engagement anticipated in 2024, signaling growth readiness and capital infusion plans.
- Increasing market presence through participation in key industry events such as the Alaska Telecom Association Conference (early 2026) and defense manufacturing conferences (MILAM 2026).
These steps illustrate a structured approach toward scaling technology adoption and expanding market footprint under Emily’s continued guidance.
Relevant Personal Profile Data
- Based in Dayton, Ohio with roots in Cincinnati, Ohio.
- Over 2,000 LinkedIn followers, reflecting significant personal and professional network influence.
- Recognized for an integrated leadership approach combining technical acumen, strategic innovation management, and community-driven impact.
This profile of Emily Fehrman Cory, Ph.D., presents a comprehensive view of a technically sophisticated, innovation-oriented executive leading Dayton Photonics Systems LLC with demonstrated expertise in electro-optics, photonics commercialization, and advanced manufacturing. Her blend of scientific rigor, entrepreneurial leadership, and community engagement positions her as a key influencer in both regional and photonics industry ecosystems with active pursuits in scaling disruptive broadband communication technologies.
