Founded in 1991 to model adaptive-optics systems for the Air Force Research Laboratory, Albuquerque-based MZA Associates Corporation develops directed-energy and advanced optical systems for defense and aerospace customers. Its WaveTrain software is used to model wave-optics propagation and adaptive optics, while its research and engineering work extends to beam control, atmospheric characterization, and optical-system testing. MZA became employee-owned through an ESOP in 2012 and has offices in Dayton, Ohio, alongside its Albuquerque headquarters and McCarter Machine division in Texas.