Daewook Kim is an associate professor of Optical Sciences and Astronomy at the University of Arizona. He has devoted his efforts to a multitude of space and ground-based large optical engineering projects. His primary research focuses on precision freeform optics design, fabrication, and various metrology topics, including interferometry and dynamic deflectometry. His contributions cover a broad spectrum of wavelengths, ranging from radio to x-ray. Kim has played various roles in numerous astronomical optical engineering projects. Notable among these are his involvement in designing and assembling the NASA Aspera UV space telescope, conducting the fabrication and testing of the 25-meter diameter Giant Magellan Telescope primary mirror segments, designing the South Pole Telescope’s SLIM instrument for wide-field-of-view radio signal detection, and spearheading the development of technology for thermoforming antenna panels for the next generation of very large array radio telescopes, among numerous other projects. For over a decade, he has actively participated in various conference programs and short courses related to optics, delivering more than 20 plenary, keynote, and colloquium talks at various international conferences and universities. His leadership roles include chairing the Optical Fabrication and Testing conference (OPTICA), the Optical Manufacturing and Testing conference (SPIE), and the Astronomical Optics: Design, Manufacture, and Test of Space and Ground Systems conference (SPIE). Kim's academic contributions include authoring over 300 journal/conference papers and serving as an associate editor for Optics Express. His academic achievements have led to his recognition as an SPIE Fellow, and he was elected to the SPIE Board of Directors for the term spanning 2024 to 2026.