A vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL) system and method of fabrication are included. The VCSEL system includes a first portion comprising a first mirror and a gain region to amplify an optical signal in response to a data signal, the first portion being fabricated on a first wafer. The system also includes a second portion comprising a second mirror that is partially-reflective to couple the optical signal to an optical fiber. The second portion can be fabricated on a second wafer. The system further includes a supporting structure to couple the first and second portions such that the first and second mirrors are arranged as a laser cavity having a predetermined length to resonate the optical signal.