Remembering Jennifer Turner-Valle
Jennifer Turner-Valle earned a BS degree in Engineering Physics from the University of Colorado where she developed a passionate interest in optics. She subsequently studied thin-film optics under Dr. H. Angus Macleod at the University of Arizona, receiving her Ph.D. in 1998.
Her career path reflected her natural intellectual curiosity and unwavering self-confidence. From her initial work as an optical engineer for space instrumentation, her roles included lead optical designer for the Wide Field Camera 3 for the Hubble Space Telescope; lead systems engineer for the MESSENGER Mercury Atmospheric and Surface Composition Spectrometer; and an aerospace business program manager and strategic development consultant.
She was also an associate professor at the University of Arizona College of Optical Sciences. Her experience in program and organizational management led to her earning Advanced Program Management certificates through Stanford University.
Demonstrating her wide-ranging abilities, Jennifer co-founded and was president of Optical Engineering Associates LLC, providing technical and strategic consulting services to commercial, university, and government customers. In this capacity, she exercised her technical, business, and engaging interpersonal skills.
The Jennifer Turner Advancing Women in Optics Graduate Student Scholarship exemplifies Jennifer’s proud association with the University of Arizona’s College of Optical Sciences and her desire to enable others to aspire to full and rewarding careers in the optical sciences.