William H. Steier’s life and work trace the evolution of modern fiber optics and photonics. From early fiber communication experiments to the ultra-high-speed electro‑optic devices that power today’s global internet, his impact is everywhere.
This article looks back on his scientific legacy and his role in transforming optical engineering research. We’ll also see how his pioneering work in electro‑optic polymers continues to shape advanced communications, aerospace systems, and integrated photonic technologies.
Remembering a Pioneer in Fiber Optics and Photonics
William H. Steier, a central figure in the development of high-speed optical communication, passed away on Nov. 9 at his home in San Marino. He was 92.
For nearly five decades at the USC Viterbi School of Engineering, he helped define what modern photonics research looks like. Steier’s work stretched from fundamental device physics to practical, deployable technology.
He was best known for his work on electro‑optic polymer materials. In that field, he earned a reputation as a true pioneer.
These materials made it possible to transmit dramatically more data using less power. That directly contributed to the infrastructure behind high-speed internet and advanced data networks worldwide.
Advancing Electro‑Optic Polymers for High-Speed Internet
Working with chemist Larry Dalton and colleagues at the USC Loker Hydrocarbon Institute, Steier led a team that engineered devices to convert electrical signals to optical signals at record speeds. Their electro‑optic polymer modulators ran up to 10 times faster than many technologies available at the time.
These devices weren’t just for the lab. By enabling faster, more efficient signal modulation, Steier’s work helped solve two core problems in optical networking: bandwidth and power consumption.
The advances became essential for high-speed, long-haul, and metropolitan fiber networks. That’s what underpins cloud computing, streaming media, and global data centers now.
From Indiana Roots to Global Impact
Steier’s path to becoming a leader in photonics began far from the labs where he’d later make his mark. Born in Indiana in 1933, he combined a strong technical education with early exposure to cutting-edge research environments.
His academic training built a solid foundation in electrical engineering and optics. Later, he applied that to both fundamental and applied challenges in communications technology.
Academic Formation and Early Research
Steier earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Evansville. Then he picked up a master’s and doctorate at the University of Illinois at Urbana‑Champaign, a school long known for electrical engineering and physics.
Those experiences grounded him in the theory and experimentation that would shape his career. A formative chapter came with his time at Bell Laboratories, then the epicenter of innovation in telecommunications.
There, he worked on early fiber optic communications and laser phase locking. Those areas are still crucial for the stabilization and reliability of optical links in modern communication systems.
Transforming USC into a Hub for Optical Engineering
Steier joined the University of Southern California in 1968. Photonics was just emerging as a distinct interdisciplinary field back then.
His arrival matched a period of rapid growth in optical communications and solid-state devices. He quickly became a central architect of USC’s rise as a leader in optical engineering and photonics research.
Leadership as Department Chair and Program Director
From 1970 to 1984, Steier served as chair of USC’s electrical engineering department. In those 14 years, he expanded research capacity, recruited faculty, built laboratory infrastructure, and strengthened ties between electrical engineering, materials science, and applied physics.
He also directed and co-directed major research initiatives, including the DARPA National Center for Integrated Photonic Technology. Under his guidance, USC became a key player in national efforts to integrate photonics with electronic systems.
That shift sped up the move from discrete optical components to more compact, high-performance photonic circuits.
From Deep Space to Data Centers: Real-World Impact
Steier’s work never stayed confined to theory. His research translated into devices and systems that industry and government adopted, influencing everything from terrestrial networks to interplanetary missions.
His collaborations showed how carefully engineered optical materials and device designs could solve mission-critical needs. From extreme environments in space to the energy constraints of global telecom networks, his influence reached far.
Polymer Modulators for Communications and Aerospace
One of Steier’s signature achievements was the development of low‑voltage polymer modulators. These devices allowed high-speed modulation of light using much less electrical power—a must for compact communication systems and power-sensitive platforms.
Their applications stretched well beyond commercial data networks. Technologies from Steier’s work found their way into NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory for deep-space missions, where robust, lightweight, and power-efficient optical systems are essential for communication over vast distances.
A Lasting Legacy in Photonics Research and Education
Over his career, Steier published more than 300 scientific papers. Many of those have become foundational references in photonics and electro‑optic materials.
He earned recognition as an IEEE Life Fellow, reflecting his sustained and substantial contributions to the field. Steier also worked closely with industry, helping to commercialize key technologies through partnerships that brought advanced optical devices from the lab into real-world use.
Mentor, Innovator, and Builder of a Field
Steier retired in 2014 after 46 years at USC. He left behind not only a portfolio of influential research, but also a generation of students and collaborators who now lead laboratories and companies around the world.
Many of today’s advances in integrated photonics, high-speed modulators, and electro‑optic materials build directly on concepts he helped establish. That’s a pretty remarkable reach, honestly.
His legacy shows up in a lot of places: high-speed links that power the internet, photonic tech guiding aerospace missions, and academic programs still pushing the boundaries of light-based communication.
William H. Steier’s work reshaped how information travels. His influence lingers in every new wave of optical and photonic innovation.
Here is the source article for this story: In Memoriam: William H. Steier, Pioneer in Fiber Optics and PhotonicsIn Memoriam: William H. Steier, Pioneer in Fiber Optics and Photonics – USC Viterbi