Laser technology students are learning to master some of the coolest gadgets
of the high-tech age. These students learn to operate and service lasers in
medical or industrial settings.
Most institutions offer two-year associate of science (AS) or associate
of advanced science (AAS) degrees. A few offer shorter certificate programs.
Mari-Lyn Hunt works in patient education at an eye institute. "Most training
is done on the job by a senior technician," she says. Hunt also says that
most people working with lasers in the medical field have an RNA (registered
nursing assistant) or dental assisting background.
Do your research to make sure a program matches your interest. Program
content varies widely from place to place.
For example, a school near many large medical centers may choose to focus
entirely on medical laser technology. But a school near a large manufacturing
or industrial center may opt for the industrial side of laser technology.
Medical and industrial are the two basic tracks. However, some institutions
make other distinctions. Camden County College in New Jersey, for example,
offers a fiber-optics track.
Fred Seeber is an instructor at Camden. He says a laser technology program
should have certain basic courses. These include introduction to lasers,
laser safety, laser materials, laser measurements and laser devices.
Daniel Sczygelski is a former laser technology instructor at Northcentral
Technical College in Wisconsin. He says a medical laser track includes courses
in medical terminology, introduction to surgery and surgical equipment
in addition to the basic laser courses.
And an industrial laser track, he says, should include courses in AutoCAD
(computer-aided design), computer numerical control (CNC) programming, machine
shop and automation systems.
"It's quite scientific, quite involved. They have to have a scientific
mind and obviously they have to enjoy the lab side of it," says Seeber.
He adds that homework comes in a variety of forms. "It's book work, it's
projects, it's labs and it's also research on the Internet." Most programs
also offer students the opportunity to gain practical laser experience.
In high school, take as much math and science as possible. Focus on
algebra, chemistry, physics and geometry. "Those going into an industrial
job might consider taking additional shop classes," says Sczygelski.
Explore extracurricular activities dealing with astronomy, science, math
or debating, he suggests.
Besides tuition and books, you might have to buy things like safety glasses,
a calculator and a computer.
Links
Occupational Outlook Handbook
For more information related to this field of study, see: Engineering
Technicians
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