SPIE is an international non-profit organization founded in 1955 with over 16,000 members representing 143 countries. It aims to advance optics and photonics through conferences, publications, and educational programs. SPIE offers over 800 short courses and training programs, operates a job website, and publishes 8 journals and a digital library. It also provides scholarships, grants, and support for student programs including chapters at 141 universities in 27 countries.