In this episode of Focus on Precision, we examine the critical role Ross Optical plays within the Precision Optics Corporation (POC) ecosystem. Joining host Justin Starbird and POC’s Clay Schwabe are Divi Mangadu (President of Ross Optical) and Carlos Penalbert (Sales and Coating Engineer).
From navigating 50% tariffs with near-perfect delivery rates to the meticulous process of inspecting sub-millimeter components, this conversation reveals how Ross Optical has become an indispensable partner for OEMs in the medical, defense, and industrial sectors.
Strategic Insights & Key Discussion Points
The Evolution of a Global Sourcing Powerhouse
Divi Mangadu reflects on Ross Optical’s transition from a high-volume lens manufacturer in the 1980s to a global leader in optics sourcing and metrology. By establishing a robust network of partners in Taiwan, South Korea, and Bulgaria, Ross has developed a resilient supply chain that balances cost-effectiveness with world-class quality.
The POC Synergy: Design Meets Execution
A core theme of the discussion is the 2019 merger between POC and Ross Optical. This partnership allows customers to access a “full-lifecycle” solution:
- Precision Optics (POC): Leads the high-level design engineering and proprietary micro-optics development.
- Ross Optical: Manages the high-volume manufacturing, worldwide sourcing, and final assembly/inspection.
Risk Mitigation in a Volatile Market
The team discusses the “battle” of global supply chains, specifically the mastery required to handle shifting tariffs. By maintaining significant inventory buffers (stocking 99.9% of common parts) and monitoring customs descriptions with extreme detail, Ross ensures that global political shifts don’t become their customers’ bottlenecks.
Precision Inspection & Reverse Engineering
Carlos Penalbert highlights the technical rigor behind the Ross “A+ quality” reputation. Utilizing the latest Zygo verifiers and Trioptics centration instruments, the El Paso team can verify optics ranging from 3mm to 150mm. They also discuss their specialized ability to reverse engineer “extinct” optical programs, providing a lifeline for OEMs with legacy systems.
Looking Forward: The 2026 Industry Rebound
The episode concludes with a look at the current industry “boom.” With order volumes increasing and clients securing production capacity through 2026, the leadership team shares why they are optimistic about the next frontier of optics-driven sensors and medical devices.
Featured Speakers
- Divi Mangadu: President, Ross Optical
- Carlos Penalbert: Sales & Coating Engineer, Ross Optical
- Clay Schwabe: VP of Business Development, Precision Optics
Explore More
- Request a Custom Quote: Ross Optical RFQ
- Precision Optics: www.poci.com
- Meet the Team at Photonics West: Join us at Booth 1462, January 20–22, 2026.