DEPS Info

Discover the Mission, People, and Values That Shape Our Society

 MISSION

The Directed Energy Professional Society (DEPS) was founded in 1999 to foster the research, development, and operational transition of Directed Energy (DE) technologies for national defense and civil applications through professional communication, education and outreach.

 VISION

We intend to be the premier professional organization for the advocation and exchange of information between academia, industry, service laboratories, and the warfighters, while continuing to develop and support the next generation of scientists and engineers in Directed Energy.

OBJECTIVES

COMMUNICATE

We bring the Directed Energy community together through workshops, conferences, and symposia that foster technical exchange, collaboration, and meaningful networking across government, industry, and academia.

EMPOWER

Short courses, professional development programs, and recognition through DEPS Fellowships and memberships give professionals the tools, knowledge, and support they need to excel in the Directed Energy domain.

EDUCATE

From graduate scholarships to K–12 STEM outreach, DEPS strengthens the future DE workforce by supporting learners at every level and expanding the pipeline of tomorrow’s Directed Energy professionals.

INSPIRE

Through student programs, design challenges, and hands-on experiences, we spark curiosity and empower young innovators to explore careers in Directed Energy science and engineering.

CONNECT

Our publications, including the Journal of Directed Energy, technical books, and the WaveFront newsletter, keep the community connected with trusted, timely information and insights that help drive the field forward.

ADVOCATE

DEPS advances understanding of Directed Energy technologies by engaging senior decision-makers, ensuring informed policy, funding, and national-level support.

DEPS GOVERNANCE

The Directed Energy Professional Society is incorporated as a nonprofit corporation in New Mexico, organized and operated exclusively for charitable, scientific, and educational purposes within the meaning of Sections 170(c)(2)(B ), 501(c)(3), 2055(a)(2), and 2522(a)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. The Society’s fiscal year aligns with the calendar year. Annual DEPS operations and activities are governed by its Bylaws, and relevant policies and Annual Reports are available for DEPS members. LEARN MORE

DEPS COMPOSITION AND OPERATIONS

DEPS is a non-profit corporation made up of both individual members and organizational sponsors who support our mission and vision. The organization is governed by a Board of Directors and advised by the Board of Scientific and Engineering Advisors. A small permanent staff manages daily operations from the DEPS headquarters in Albuquerque, New Mexico.

DEPS MEMBERS

DEPS members support the Directed Energy (DE) community through the volunteer efforts of nearly 1,000 members representing a broad cross section of the field. About half represent industry, while one-third come from the U.S. Department of War with all Services represented. International members make up approximately 5% of our community. LEARN MORE