nLight is an American laser company founded in 2000 by Scott Keeney. The company is privately held and funded by venture capital firms. It has headquarters in Vancouver, Washington, and operations in Shanghai, Hillsboro, Oregon, and Lohja, Finland. nLight specializes in diode laser components and systems, fiber laser components and systems, and optical fibers. Their key markets include materials processing, consumer electronics, and medical and military applications. nLight was founded in 2000 during the telecom boom. Since its inception, nLight has grown to more than four hundred employees worldwide and has won numerous awards.[citation needed] In 2005, nLight created nConnect, an independent 501(c)(3) entity with a mission to increase student interest and achievement in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) by connecting schools to business.