Local Optics Firm Bruker Nano Moves into Larger Space

High-tech manufacturer of 3-dimensional microscopes, Bruker Nano Surfaces Division, moved into new, larger space at 3400 Brittania Drive on Tucson's south side as part of their local expansion plan.

The operation has deep roots in Tucson, the University of Arizona, and the local optics industry. In 2010 Bruker Corp (based near Boston) acquired Veeco Instruments, which previously had acquired Wyko Corp, a company founded by UA College of Optical Sciences Dean James Wyant.

Bruker Nano employs 90 people, many of whom are UA optics graduates. Robert Loiterman, vice president and general manager of Bruker's Tucson operation attributes the company’s decision to stay in Tucson to the skilled local workforce and the company's long relationship with the UA.

John Alfson, Bruker Nano operations director and a UA grad who started with Wyko just before its acquisition by Veeco, credited city officials for expediting the company's permits so it could quickly upgrade and move into the building.

The company's new, roughly 45,000-square-foot space was renovated for Bruker, with a spacious lobby, an instrument demonstration center with views of the surrounding mountains, and a production floor that will soon include a clean room.

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