Home > Online Exclusives > Online Exclusive November 2004

WEB EXCLUSIVE
Laser Manufacturer Moves Operations to Washington's Spokane Region

The Spokane Area Economic Development Council announced September 30 that Paradigm Lasers, Inc. a designer and manufacturer of laser systems has moved operations from East Rochester, NY to the Spokane Valley. The company is now operating and leasing a 5,000-square-foot facility at Evergreen Business Park. The company plans to hire 12 employees within the next six months and an additional 18 in the following 12 months.

Paradigm designs, develops and manufactures advanced diode-pumped solid-state laser systems that perform a broad range of precision operations critical to several industries such as precision drilling and welding for the industrial industry, low light level therapy and hair removal for the medical industry, and remote sensing (LIDAR) and terrain mapping (Flash LADAR) for the military. Since 1992, the company has worked closely with researchers, scientists and engineers to develop the technology design that consists of a unique radial array that produces a high brightness beam for superb focusing. Paradigm has been featured in multiple electronics, high-tech and manufacturing publications.

The Spokane Area Economic Development Council (EDC) worked closely with Paradigm for over a year assisting the company with its relocation process, and put it in contact with multiple EDC member investors and partner organizations.

"The EDC played a critical role in our decision to move to the Spokane region. They provided a warm welcome, introduced us to a number of business contacts in the area and provided access to several important community resources," says Tim Irwin, president of Paradigm Lasers, Inc.

The company considered other cities nationwide, but chose the Spokane region for its size and location, business-friendly environment, lower business costs and excellent quality of life.

"Spokane and the EDC proudly welcome Paradigm to the community," says Jon Eliassen, president & CEO of the Spokane Area EDC. "Paradigm has great potential to grow and generate long-term investment in our region and the manufacturing industry."