- Video Library
- /
- Degree Field: Medical and Science Videos
- /
- Laser Technician Video How to Become...
Laser Technician Video: How to Become a Laser Tech
Laser Technician Video: How to Become a Laser Tech Transcript
Powerful, practical lasers aren't just science fiction anymore. Today, dozens of industries, from healthcare to aerospace engineering, make use of laser technologies. If you're interested in a career as a laser technologist, or laser tech, consider earning an associate's degree in Laser Technology or a bachelor's degree in Physics. If you study up on the practical applications of lasers and their theoretical foundations you can get started in a challenging and rewarding career.
Introduction
First developed in 1958, lasers are intensely focused beams of light with many industrial applications, from tattoo removal to creating accurate maps. Today, laser technicians are professionals who specialize in the use and control of lasers in industrial and medical applications. An associate's degree in Laser Technology or a bachelor's degree in Physics is required for most positions. Professional certification or licensing may also be required, depending on the position.
Job Duties and Skills
In their medical applications, lasers are used as precision cutting instruments and to make changes to the skin, eyes and other organs. Tattoos can be removed and vision corrected. Laser techs operate the equipment used during these procedures. In most cases, they work alongside a physician or nurse and follow their instructions. In other procedures, the physician may control the laser itself and the technician monitors a computer terminal to provide feedback to the doctor.
In factories and manufacturing plants, lasers are used to cut and fuse metals. Laser techs operate powerful lasers to accomplish these tasks. This can be dangerous work and attention to detail is essential. Lasers can also be used in surveying and mapmaking to mark true, straight lines and to measure distance. In the military, lasers are used to create guidance systems for missiles and other ballistic projectiles. Laser techs may also be used in a field known as spectroscopy. This field uses lasers to determine the components of unknown substances. The most common use of this technology is in criminal investigations. Laser spectroscopy of a fleck of paint may reveal the origin of the paint, providing investigators with important information.
All careers in laser technology require excellent computer skills. Computer terminals are used to control industrial and medical lasers and to record data. Powerful lasers are dangerous and safety should take priority in their use.
Training Required
Associate's and bachelor's degrees in Laser Technology are offered by many vocational schools, community colleges and four-year universities. These programs are built around a general study of the applications and uses of laser technology. More advanced programs will include a thorough study of the mathematical and scientific principles upon which laser technology is based. In addition, most programs will include courses that focus on the use of computer technology. Programs that focus on the medical applications of laser technology will offer students the opportunity to work in a clinical setting as part of their education.
Required professional certifications will depend upon the type of position desired. Medical laser technicians may be required to receive a state-issued license, depending on local regulations. Laser techs who choose to work in an industrial or research environment are not required to be licensed.
Career Options
Opportunities are found in a variety of industries for trained laser technicians. Medical laser techs are generally employed by private clinics specializing in elective treatments, such as laser hair removal or other cosmetic procedures. In industrial applications, laser technicians are employed in manufacturing, surveying, alternative energy and the military.
A master's degree in Physics can create opportunities for more advanced industrial positions and careers in academic research as well.
If you have a love for technology, science and working with high tech equipment, a career as a laser technician may be right for you.
Sources
http://www.nationallaserinstitute.com
http://www.lasersafety.org/
http://www.elengroup.com/laser-applications.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Laser_applications
Laser Technician Video: How to Become a Laser Tech Related Articles
-
Cosmetic Laser Technician Training and Education Program Information
Cosmetic laser technicians are aesthetic technicians who are trained to meet state-specific licensing requirements. Students get...
-
Job Description of a Medical Laser Technician
Learn about the education and preparation needed to become a medical laser technician. Get a quick view of the requirements as well as...
-
Cosmetic Laser Technician: Job Duties & Requirements
A cosmetic laser technician, or esthetician, typically works in a medical spa using laser therapy for hair removal, skin tightening and...
-
Ophthalmic Laser Technician: Job Description, Duties and Requirements
Learn about the education and preparation needed to become an ophthalmic laser technician. Get a quick view of the requirements as well...
-
Laser Hair Removal Technician: Job Description and Requirements
Laser hair removal technicians require significant formal education. Learn about the training, job duties and licensure to see if this is...
- Certified Laser Technician
- Laser Technician School
- Laser Technician
- Laser Training
- Laser Schools
- Cosmetic Laser Degrees
- Cosmetic Laser Course
- Laser Technician: Career Profile and Educational Requirements
- Laser Printer Technician: Job Duties, Requirements and Career Info
- Certified Medical Laser Technician: Certification and Career Roadmap
- Diploma in Laser Technology
- Cosmetic Dermatologist: Education Requirements and Career Information
-
Legal History Graduate Programs
Students interested in legal history can explore the subject through dual degree programs or concentrations in law schools. Read on for...
-
List of Free Online Bookkeeping Courses and Classes
With help from this comprehensive list, you can explore top free online bookkeeping courses. Find out what courses are available and what...
-
MFT Certification
MFT certification programs prepare candidates for marriage and family therapist licensure through the AMFTRB. Most states require...
-
Career Information for a Degree in Merchandising Marketing Sales and Distribution
Degrees in merchandising marketing, sales and distribution typically cover advertising, marketing and management. Find out about the...
Perfect School Search
Schools you may like:





Popular Schools
The listings below may include sponsored content but are popular choices among our users.
An admission advisor from each school can provide more info about:
- programs & curriculum
- career opportunities
- tuition & financial aid
- admissions & starting dates
-
School Info
Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Program Info
Online Programs
-
Doctorate
-
- EdD in Organizational Leadership - Health Care Administration
-
-
Master
-
- MBA: Health Systems Management
-
- MS in Health Care Administration
-
-
Bachelor
-
- BS in Health Sciences: Professional Development & Advanced Patient Care
- Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health Science
-
- BS in Health Care Administration
-
-
School Info
Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED.
School locations:
- Online Learning
Program Info
Online Programs
-
Master
-
- MS in Nursing
-
-
Bachelor
-
- BS in Health Science
-
-
School Info
Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Program Info
Online Programs
-
Doctorate
-
- Doctor of Strategic Leadership - Healthcare Leadership
-
-
Master
-
- Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership - Healthcare Management
-
- Master of Business Administration - Healthcare Management
-
-
School Info
Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Program Info
Online Programs
-
School Info
Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Masters degree applicants must have a Bachelors degree; Doctorate degree applicants must have a Masters degree
School locations:
- Online Learning
-
School Info
Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Applicants must have a bachelor's degree or higher.
School locations:
- Online Learning
Program Info
Online Programs
-
Master
-
- MSHS in Clinical Microbiology
- MSHS in Clinical Research Administration
- MSHS in Clinical and Translational Research
-
- MSHS in Regulatory Affairs
- MSHS in Laboratory Medicine
- MSHS Medical Laboratory Sciences
-
-
Bachelor
-
- BSHS in Biomedical Informatics
-
- BSHS in Medical Laboratory Sciences
-
-
School Info
Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Program Info
Online Programs
-
School Info
Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate or have completed GED
School locations:
- Online Learning
Program Info
Online Programs
-
Master
-
- Master of Business Administration - Health Care Administration
-
-
Bachelor
-
- B.S. General Studies - Life Sciences
-
- B.S. Healthcare Administration
-
-
Associate
-
- A.S. General Studies - Life Sciences
-
-
Program Info
Classroom-Based Programs
-
Non-Degree
-
- Medical Laboratory Technology
- Medical Assistant
-
- Medical Assisting
- Sterile Processing Technician
-
-
Non-Degree
-
School Info
Minimum eligibility requirements:
- Must be a high school graduate.
School locations:
- Online Learning
Program Info
Online Programs
-
Associate
-
- AS in Medical Assisting
-
10 Popular Schools
The listings below may include sponsored content but are popular choices among our users.
-
- EdD in Organizational Leadership - Health Care Administration
- MBA: Health Systems Management
- MS in Health Care Administration
- BS in Health Sciences: Professional Development & Advanced Patient Care
- Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Health Science
- BS in Health Care Administration
- View more
-
- MS in Nursing
- BS in Health Science
-
- Doctor of Strategic Leadership - Healthcare Leadership
- Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership - Healthcare Management
- Master of Business Administration - Healthcare Management
- View more
-
- MSHS in Clinical Microbiology
- MSHS in Clinical Research Administration
- MSHS in Clinical and Translational Research
- MSHS in Regulatory Affairs
- MSHS in Laboratory Medicine
- MSHS Medical Laboratory Sciences
- BSHS in Biomedical Informatics
- BSHS in Medical Laboratory Sciences
- View more
-
- Master of Business Administration - Health Care Administration
- B.S. General Studies - Life Sciences
- B.S. Healthcare Administration
- A.S. General Studies - Life Sciences
-
- Medical Laboratory Technology
- Medical Assistant
- Medical Assisting
- Sterile Processing Technician
- View more
-
- AS in Medical Assisting
- Show more schools…
Find your perfect school
What is your highest level of education?