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QUICK FACTS*: School Subjects: Computer science, Mathematics, Physics Personal Skills: Mechanical/manipulative Technical/scientific Work Environment: Primarily indoors; Primarily one location Minimum Education Level: Associate’s degree Salary Range: $21,000 to $38,000 to $67,729 Certification or Licensing: None available Outlook: Faster than the average DOT: 019 GOE: 05.01.01 NOC: 2241 O*NET: N/A OVERVIEW Laser technicians produce, install, operate, service, and test laser systems and fiber optics equipment in industrial, medical, or research settings. They work under the direction of engineers or physicists who conduct laboratory activities in laser research and development or design. Depending upon the type of laser system—gas or solid state—a technician generally works either with information systems or with robotics, manufacturing, or medical equipment. HISTORY The laser was invented in 1958 by the American physicist Gordon Gould. The first working model was a ruby laser designed and built by Dr. Ted Maiman in 1960. This first working laser created great interest in scientific research laboratories and started intensive experimentation and development in the field of electro-optics. The word laser is actually an acronym for light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation. The laser converts electrical power into a special beam of optical or light power. Laser light is different from white light, or light that is produced by ordinary sources. It travels in a parallel beam, diffusing much less than white light. It is also composed of a single color wavelength as opposed to the jumble of colored light waves that make up white light. Because of these unique properties, laser light can be used in a number of different ways. After its discovery, engineers and scientists considered using the light beam’s power in the same ways as electrical power. From 1960 to 1967, various new lasers and electro-optic devices and techniques were developed. Some had considerable optical power, while others had only a small amount of power. It soon became clear that lasers could be used in a great many ways to solve problems that previously had no practical solution. For example, the concentrated beams of laser light were so powerful that they could drill tiny holes in diamonds, taking minutes where old methods took days. Lasers began to be used in practical applications, such as surgery; Surveying and measuring, industrial product inspection and testing, computers, microprocessors, and manufacturing. As lasers moved from research laboratories to industry, a need arose for workers who were trained in the practical application and technical aspects of the field. In the early 19 two-year technical institutes and community colleges began offering specialized training programs in laser technology. The position of laser technician has become a valuable and necessary one in many industries, medical settings, and research programs. THE JOB There are basically two types of laser systems with which laser technicians work: semiconductor laser systems, which are the most com pact and reliable, and gas-type lasers, which are larger and more expensive. Laser technicians working with semiconductor systems are involved mainly with computer and telephone systems. In addition to helping to test, install, and maintain these systems, technicians work with engineers in their design and improvement. Technicians who work with gas-type systems usually assist scientists, engineers, or doctors. These systems are used primarily in the fields of robotics, manufacturing, and medical procedures. Laser technicians perform a wide variety of tasks. Much depends upon their positions and places of employment. For example, some repair lasers and instruct companies on their use, while others work as technicians for very specific applications, such as optical surgery or welding parts. In general, most technicians are employed in one of five areas: materials processing, communications, military, medical, and research. Technicians are involved in building laser devices in any one of these fields. To build a solid-state laser, they construct, cut, and polish a crystal rod to be used in the laser. They put a flash tube around the crystal and place the unit in a container with a mirror at each end. Using precision instruments, they position the mirrors so that all emitted or reflected light passes through the crystal. Finally, they put the laser body in a chassis, install tubing and wiring to the controls, and place a jacket around the assembly. There are other duties that all technicians perform, no matter what application they work in. These include taking measurements, cleaning, aligning, inspecting, and operating lasers, and collecting data. Since the laser field is so technologically advanced, computers are used in many tasks and applications. Technicians may be responsible for programming the computers that control the lasers, for inputting data, or for generating reports. In materials processing, lasers are used for machining, production, measurement, construction, excavation, and photo-optics. Technicians often read and interpret diagrams, schematics, and shop drawings in order to assemble components themselves or oversee the assembly process. They may operate lasers for welding, precision drilling, cutting, and grinding of metal parts, or for trimming and slicing electronic components and circuit elements. They may use lasers to verify precise parts sizes. Finally, technicians may be involved in part marking—using a laser to mark an identifying number or letter on each component. In construction, they may use a laser as a surveying guideline or an aligning tool. Laser technicians in communications use lasers to generate light impulses transmitted through optical fibers. They help to develop, manufacture, and test optical equipment, and they may design, set up, monitor, and maintain fiber fabrication facilities. This field also uses lasers for data storage and retrieval. In military and space projects, lasers are frequently used for tar get finding, tracking, ranging, identification, and communications. Technicians repair and adapt low-power lasers, which are widely used for these applications. In medical applications, technicians serve as technical equipment experts and assist physicians and surgeons who use the laser system. They advise on which type of laser and method of delivery to use. They must be on hand during laser procedures to offer recommendations, fine-tune attachments and machines, and troubleshoot if a technical problem occurs. In research and development, lasers are being studied as a source of high-intensity heat in controlled nuclear fusion. These studies are part of the continuing research to produce inexpensive electrical power. Technicians on any research and development team use lasers and electronic devices to perform tests, take measurements, gather data, and make calculations. They may prepare reports for engineers, doctors, scientists, production managers, or lab workers. REQUIREMENTS High School You can prepare for this career by taking four years of English and at least two years of mathematics, one of which should be algebra. At least one year of physical science, preferably physics, should be included, as well as a class in basic computer programming. Machine shop, basic electronics, and blueprint reading classes are also useful. Postsecondary Training Most laser technicians enter the field after attending a two-year program in laser technology at a vocational, technical, or community college. The average associate’s degree program in laser technology includes intensive technical and scientific study, with more hours spent in a laboratory or work situation than in the actual classroom. This hands-on experience is supplemented in the first year by courses in mathematics, physics, drafting, diagramming, basic electronics, electronic instrumentation and calibration, introduction to solid-state devices, electromechanical controls, and computer programming. The second year of study might include courses in geometrical optics, digital circuits, microwaves, laser and electro-optic components, devices and measurements, vacuum techniques, technical report writing, micro computers, and computer hardware. Special laser projects are often a part of the second year and can help you decide on a specific field. Even after completing your education, you will probably need further training depending on your employer’s requirements. Other Requirements You must have an interest in instruments, laboratory apparatus, and how devices and systems work. Written and spoken communications are very important since you often have to work closely with people of varied technological backgrounds. Physical strength is not usually required, but good manual dexterity and hand—eye and body coordination are quite important. Because lasers can be extremely dangerous, you must be careful, attentive, and willing to follow safety precautions closely. The ability to work efficiently, patiently, and consistently is extremely important, as is the ability to solve problems and do careful, detailed work. EXPLORING Talk to your school counselor about careers in laser technology. If you live near a community or technical college that offers programs in laser technology, visit the institution and talk with counselors and teachers. In addition, review some of the periodicals that are devoted to the field of lasers. Periodicals such as the Journal of Laser Applications and Laser Focus World may offer valuable insight into the field. Lasers are used in so many places that it should be fairly easy to find a local laser technician, operator, or engineer who can share knowledge about his or her job. It might be possible to find summer or part-time work in construction, manufacturing, or mining where lasers are used in measuring, cutting and welding, and surveying. This type of work can give you a look at jobs in laser technology. EMPLOYERS Laser technicians work in manufacturing, communications, medicine, scientific research, the military, and construction. Approximately 80 percent of all laser technicians are employed in California, Florida, Massachusetts, and New Mexico. STARTING OUT Colleges that offer associate’s degrees in laser technology usually work closely with industry, providing their graduating students with placement services and lists of potential employers. Most laser technicians graduating from a two-year program, in fact, are interviewed and recruited while still in school by representatives of companies that need laser technicians. If hired, they begin working soon after graduation. Another way to enter the career is to join a branch of the U.S. Armed Forces under a technical training program for laser technicians. Military laser training is not always compatible with civilian training, however, and further study of theory and applications may be needed to enter the field as a civilian. ADVANCEMENT Opportunities for advancement in laser technology are excellent for technicians who keep up with advances in the field. In such a relatively new technology, developments occur very rapidly. Workers who learn about and adapt to these changes become more valuable to their employers and advance to greater responsibilities. Many employers designate various grades or levels for laser technicians, according to experience, education, and job performance. By being promoted through these levels, technicians can advance to supervisory or managerial positions. Supervisors manage a department, supervise other technicians, and train new or current employees. Mature, experienced, and highly successful laser technicians may become consultants or specialists for individual firms. A consulting position entails working closely with clients, conducting studies and surveys, and proposing improvements, changes, and solutions to problems. Some technicians move into sales or technical writing positions. Others become instructors in vocational programs, teaching inter mediate or advanced laser and fiber optics technology courses. EARNINGS According to a survey done by the Laser Institute of America, the overall average starting salary for laser technicians ranges from $21,000 to $25,000 per year. Salaries for technicians with at least five years of experience average approximately $30,000 per year, depending on background, experience, and the industry where they are employed. In addition to salary, technicians usually receive benefits such as insurance, paid holidays and vacations, and retirement plans. Many employers have liberal policies of paying for professional improvement through continued study in school or at work. A 1999 Economic Research Institute study reports that laser technicians with one year of experience earned between $26,367 and $38,465 a year. Those with five years of experience earned between $37,145 and $54,188 a year. Laser technicians with 10 years of experience earned between $46,427 and $67,729. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, median salaries for laser technicians were $38,000 a year (or $18.25 an hour) in 2000. WORK ENVIRONMENT Working conditions for laser technicians vary according to the industry. Some technicians spend their day in a laboratory, while others work in a hospital operating room, office, or manufacturing plant. In most cases, however, work areas are kept clean and temperature controlled in order to protect the laser equipment. Laser technicians may work at relatively stationary jobs, assembling or operating lasers in the same environment every day, or they may be required to move around frequently, in and out of laboratory areas, production sites, or offices. Some technicians are office or laboratory based; others, especially those in sales and service positions, may travel the country. Laser technicians typically work regular hours. Five eight-hour days per week is the standard, although certain projects may occasionally require overtime. There are possible hazards in most areas where lasers are used. Because the power supplies for many lasers involve high voltages, technicians frequently work around potentially deadly amounts of electricity. The laser beam itself is also a possible source of serious injury, either through direct exposure to the beam or by reflected light from the laser. Safety precautions, such as wearing protective glasses, are strictly enforced. Laser technicians handle extremely valuable instruments. The parts used to make lasers are almost always costly. Mistakes that damage lasers or errors in applying lasers can be very costly, running into the thousands of dollars. Technicians often work as part of a production team or supervisory group, sometimes with scientists and engineers, sometimes as a member of a production team or supervisory group. Some technicians work alone but usually report directly to an engineer, scientist, or manager. Among the greatest sources of satisfaction for laser technicians is the feeling of success whenever they meet a challenge and see their laser systems perform correctly. This is especially true in sales and service where new users are taught to use this complicated technology and where the technician can actually see customers discovering the effectiveness of lasers. The same satisfaction is felt in research when a new development is proved to be a success. OUTLOOK Employment opportunities for laser technicians are expected to be good over the next several years. Rapid changes in technology and continued growth in the industry will almost certainly lead to an increase in the number of technicians employed. Currently the demand far outweighs the supply of qualified laser technicians. One of the fastest growing areas for laser technicians is fiber optic systems that are used in communications. Optical fiber is replacing wire cables in communication lines and in many electronic products. This trend is expected to continue, so the demand for technicians in the fiber optics field should be especially strong. Growth is also expected to be strong in production, defense, medicine, and construction. Technicians interested in research and development, how ever, should keep in mind that job growth often slows in the face of economic downturns. FOR MORE INFORMATION For information on becoming a laser technician, contact 13501 Ingenuity Drive, Suite 128 Orlando, FL 32826 Tel: 800-345-2737 Email: lia@laserinstitute.org For information on laser technology and student chapters, contact LEOS Lasers and Electro-Optics Society (LEOS) P0 Box 1331 445 Hoes Lane Piscataway, NJ 08855-1331 Tel: 732-562-3892 INTERVIEW Don Stevens and Mike Reid are laser instructors in the laser/electro optics technology program at Indian Hills Community College (IHCC) in Ottumwa, Iowa. Students who complete the 21-month program are awarded an associate of applied science degree. Gray and Reed spoke with the editors of Career Resource Basics about careers in laser technology and their school’s program. Q. For what types of jobs does the study of laser/electro technology prepare students? A. Our students are hired directly out of school as field service engineers, sales engineers, quality control technicians, manufacturing technicians, maintenance technicians, and training specialists. Q. What are the most important qualities for students in your program? A. To be successful, students must have good interpersonal skills, the ability to learn, and good communication skills. The employers who hire our students know they will have a great technical foundation after 21 months at IHCC. Q. What advice do you have to offer students as they graduate from your program and look for jobs? A. Most students have jobs before they graduate, if they are looking. The best advice we have is “You get out what you put in?’ When students first enter our program, we let them know that they are in training, like Olympic athletes. They are in a national competition for jobs. Have they ever trained for a national com petition? It takes a considerable amount of effort early in the pro gram. The harder they train (study) now, the better they’ll do in the job hunt. Also, students should know their support group and constraints. Family and friends have a huge influence on each student’s job decision, as they should. Students need to ask themselves the following questions: Where in the nation or world do they want to work? What type of job are they looking for? How much pay and what benefits will they need or want? Q. What common misconceptions do people have about this field of study? A. The only misconceptions we can think of is the myth or mind- set that laser technology is “too difficult” EVERY student at Indian Hills, at least for the past 10 years, who comes to class and does work in the lab, has passed and has a super job. Also, our program is not just about laser technology. The laser is only one part of what the students learn, We teach photonics, which is anything that has to do with a photon: light, imaging, detection, display, industrial applications, medical applications, LEDs [light emitting diodes], military, space, and especially optics. Q. What changes in the job market should students expect? A. There are always unexpected changes in the job market—usually good. Photonics is such a broad technology, if one industry is down, another is usually up. So our students have a wide range of companies and industries to pursue; there is always a job out there. We, really the students, contact so many new companies every year—they find out about us, we find out about them — and a new relationship begins. In the past few years medical companies, government contractors, and research facilities have hired most of our graduates. Q. What is the future of your program? A. The future of our program is stability with growth. The IHCC Laser Program has held steady for over five years when other programs around the nation seem to be struggling or have closed their doors. We continue to have great job placement and we do not see that slowing. |
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