LIA TODAY


March 2-5, 2025 - Orlando, Florida
Join us in Orlando, Florida from March 2-5, 2025 for the world’s premier conference on laser saety!
The world’s leading conference on laser safety. The 2025 Laser Safety Scientific Sessions will provide state-of-the-art information on laser safety, from basic science to current thinking on managing risks. Medical Practical Application Seminars (MPAS) participants will benefit from the cutting-edge medical laser safety presentations that will be showcased. At the Technical Practical Applications Seminar (TPAS) attendees can be involved in panel discussions and hot topics addressing the more common safety issues and concerns of the day-to-day operations in commercial, factory, research and medical facility settings.
November 4-7, 2024 - Hollywood, California
ICALEO Updates
Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 43rd annual International Congress on the Applications of Lasers and Electro-Optics!
Save the Date: ICALEO will be returning to Orlando, Florida for 2025! We are excited to host you at the beautiful Caribe Royale on October 13-16, 2025.
Eric Mottay Amplitude Laser Group
Klaus Löffler Precitec
Sophie Grabmann Technische Universität München
Dr. Klaus Kleine Laser Consultant
Prof. Katrin Wudy Technische Universität München
Dr. Fanrong Kong ESAB Advanced Joining Center at SMU
Thierry Marchione Caterpillar
Prof. Andrés Lasagni Technische Universität Dresden / Fraunhofer IWS
Prof. Carlo Holly RWTH Aachen University
Jared Speltz University of Dayton Research Institute
Gwenn Pallier Cailabs
Andreas Michalowski University of Stuttgart
Markus Kogel-Hollacher Precitec
Thank You to Our 2024 Sponsors ICALEO Cooperating Societies and Media Partners
By, John McCormack
We rolled out the red carpet for this year’s International Congress on the Applications of Lasers and Electro-Optics (ICALEO) where we gathered in the heart of Hollywood, California, at the Loews Hollywood Hotel; surrounded by the energy of one of the world’s most iconic cities where the famous Hollywood Sign provided a picturesque backdrop for our conference setting the stage for groundbreaking research, technical sessions, and meaningful discussions on the future of lasers and electro-optics.
ICALEO 2024 saw the continued evolution of our industry, with six dynamic tracks covering Macroprocessing, Microprocessing, Laser Additive Manufacturing (LAM), Battery Manufacturing, Beam Shaping, and Frontiers in Laser Applications. Each track provided an opportunity for attendees to dive deep into the latest innovations and research, fostering an environment of learning and collaboration. A huge thank you to this year’s track chairs and presenters for curating such engaging discussions and presentations.
A highlight of the conference was our keynote presentations, where we heard from experts shaping the future of laser technology. Dr. Jan-Philipp Weberpals of AUDI AG captivated the audience with his talk on high-quality laser beam welding for battery manufacturing, shedding light on how AI-driven analysis and precise laser control are revolutionizing the field. Richard Black of Microsoft Research provided insights into Project Silica, a revolutionary approach to archival data storage using laser processing, demonstrating its potential as a long-term and sustainable solution for data preservation. Greg Niven brought the excitement of lasers in entertainment to the stage with his engaging keynote, “Lights, Camera, Laser Action,” showcasing the innovative ways laser technology is transforming visual effects, live performances, and digital media.
Our Awards Luncheon was another momentous occasion, where we celebrated the achievements of pioneers in the field. We were honored to recognize this year’s Arthur L. Schawlow Award recipient: Dr. Koji Sujioka, whose contributions to laser science have been instrumental in advancing the industry. We were pleased to welcome Dr. Klaus Kleine as a new LIA Fellow, and congratulated Civan Lasers as our Steen Award Winner, and Daniel Metzner as the JLA Paper Award recipient. Their groundbreaking work continues to inspire and push the boundaries of what is possible with lasers, serving as a beacon for future generations of researchers and innovators.
One of the many amazing things about ICALEO is the connection we make with each other as we share thoughts, research, and raise questions about our industry. This year we brought interactivity and personal connection to a whole new level. The President’s Reception – hosted by LIA President Aravinda Kar – held at Lucky Strike was an all-out event that will be remembered for many ICALEO’s to come. Everybody in attendance got the opportunity to mingle, network, bowl, and belt out tunes in the karaoke room. Our President’s Reception has become the perfect place to unwind after a long day of discussions while keeping the spirit of the conference alive giving the attendees a chance to network and celebrate the spirit of innovation with lasers.
The Exhibitor Reception on Tuesday evening continued the excitement, offering a chance for sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees to connect in a relaxed setting. With engaging discussions, and a lively atmosphere, this event showcased the cutting-edge technologies that are shaping the future of laser applications. Attendees also had the opportunity to explore the latest advancements in laser equipment and applications, gaining valuable insights into the future of the industry.
The Whova App was a hit once again this year, keeping attendees connected throughout the conference. Participants shared photos, session highlights, and key takeaways, fostering a digital community that extended beyond the event itself. A big congratulations to our Social Media App Champion, Neil Ball who kept the conversation lively and interactive throughout the week.
And we can’t forget the LIA Running Club, which saw a fantastic turnout each morning. Attendees started their days with energizing runs through the streets of the Hollywood Hills.
A big thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s conference – from the speakers and track chairs to our sponsors, exhibitors, and attendees. Your passion and dedication to advancing laser technology made ICALEO 2024 an unforgettable experience.
As we wrap up another successful year, we look forward to what’s next: ICALEO 2025! We can’t wait to see you all again October 13-16, 2025, at the Caribe Royale in sunny Orlando, Florida. Stay connected, stay inspired, and let’s continue illuminating the future of our industry together.
Go to https://icaleo.org/subscribe if you wish to subscribe for updates about next year’s event!
The Arthur L. Schawlow Award recognizes outstanding, career-long contributions to basic and applied research in laser science and engineering leading to fundamental understanding of laser materials interaction and/or transfer of laser technology for increased application in industry, medicine and daily life. Examples of fields of contribution include the following in addition to many relevant topics:
• Laser spectroscopy and its application in materials processing and diagnostics
• Laser-aided materials processing
• Laser interaction with biological tissues
• Development of new lasers
The Schawlow honoree will be acknowledged at the LIA Awards Luncheon, during which the recipient will give an address.
Koji Sugioka is a Team Leader of Advanced Laser Processing Research Team at RIKEN Center for Advanced Photonics. He received B.E., M.E. and Ph.D. degrees in electronics from Waseda University in 1984, 1986 and 1993, respectively. He was awarded the degree of Doctor Honoris Causa from University of Szeged, Hungary in 2018. Sugioka joined RIKEN in 1986. At RIKEN, He has made important contribution to both fundamental researches on laser-matter interactions and diverse applications including practical use in the said area. He is internationally renowned for his works on laser doping, laser etching, laser surface modification, laser-induced selective metallization, microfabrication of transparent materials, VUV laser processing, laser surface nanostructuring, and 3D micro and nano fabrication. In particular, he is known as a leading scientist in the ultrafast laser processing technology. His current research interests include ultrafast laser processing for microfluidic, optofluidic, microelectronic and optoelectronic applications.
Organizations with Significant Innovation in the use of Lasers for Advanced Materials Processing
The prestigious William M. Steen Award for significant developments in Laser Material Processing is named after one of the early pioneers in the subject. Laser Material Processing is one of the growth points in modern manufacturing. To bring focus to the many developments taking place and to promote the development of new ideas the LIA is making awards for the top idea of the year as adjudicated by a prize giving panel.
In order to qualify, the innovative development should have experimental proof of concept in the use of lasers or monitoring of laser processes and should fit one of the criteria stated below:
• Open a new area of application for lasers.
• Be of benefit to manufacturing with lasers.
• Solve a problem either particular or general by the use of lasers.
• Show some novel sensing system by using optics or when monitoring laser processes.
• A development in photo chemistry.
• A development in photo-therapies.
• A development in 3D printings with lasers
The grade of Fellow is the highest level of membership in the The Laser Institute. It is awarded to recognize members of the institute who have:
- Attained unusual professional distinction in the LIA mission areas of laser science and technology, laser applications and/or laser safety, and
- Provided outstanding service to their field.
Nominations are open to candidates who must have practiced the profession of Laser Science and Engineering in academia, medicine, industry, or government for at least 10 years, and whose membership is current. For exceptional candidates, the Executive Committee may waive the eligibility requirements.
Klaus Kleine
Excellence in Laser Applications Research
The Journal of Laser Applications Best Paper Award is given annually in recognition of outstanding laser applications research to the primary author of a selected paper published in the journal in the preceding three years. Each Editor nominates a single paper in their topical area for consideration by the full Editorial team based on the quality and significance of the work.
The winning author receives free registration to ICALEO and a Crystal Award.
2024 Winner: Daniel Metzner for his submission, “Optimization of the Ablation Process using Ultrashort Pulsed Laser Radiation in Different Burst Modes”
Recognizing Poster Presentation
This longstanding ICALEO showcase draws a crowd and inspires plenty of discussion. Join presenters as they answer your questions during the Exhibitor Reception on Tuesday where posters will be displayed. Check the ICALEO proceedings for accompanying manuscripts from presenters who submit them for publication. Posters will be available for viewing throughout the conference and will also be judged by a panel.
1st Place Winner: Tamaki Yoshida
2nd Place Winner: Tony Weiss
3rd Place Winner: Keisuke Takenaka
Recognizing Student Excellence
Not only does the Student Paper Contest illuminate the great work of up-and-coming researchers, but cash awards will be presented to the first-, second- and third-place winners in each contest. Student papers accepted for competition will be judged by an international panel based on originality of topic/material presented, scientific and technical merit, and presentation quality.
1st Place Winner: Christian Frey
2nd Place Winner: Christoph Spurk
3rd Place Winner: Patricia Dold
Orlando, FL – October 19, 2024 – The Laser Institute (LIA) is pleased to announce that Dr. Koji Sugioka has been named the 2024 recipient of the prestigious Arthur L. Schawlow Award in Laser Science and Engineering. This honor was conferred at LIA’s Award Ceremony held during the International Congress on Applications of Lasers & ElectroOptics (ICALEO) on October 6, 2024, in Hollywood, CA. Dr. Sugioka’s groundbreaking contributions to the field of laser micro and nanofabrication have been transformative, advancing laser technology applications across science, medicine, and industry.
Dr. Koji Sugioka, a Team Leader at the RIKEN Center for Advanced Photonics in Japan, is internationally recognized for his pioneering work in ultrafast laser processing and laser micro and nanofabrication. His extensive research spans over three decades and includes notable innovations in 3D laser processing of transparent materials, the development of laser-induced plasma-assisted ablation (LIPAA), and hybrid 3D laser processing. His work has revolutionized methods for fabricating micro and nanofluidic chips, which have been applied to biological research, high-sensitivity sensing, and next-generation microelectronic devices.
In addition to his technical achievements, Dr. Sugioka has been a dedicated member of the global laser community. He has served on the Board of Trustees for LIA multiple times and has played a crucial role in organizing several major conferences, including ICALEO. His leadership and advocacy for laser research and its applications have significantly advanced both the field and LIA’s mission to promote innovation and safety in laser technology worldwide.
The Arthur L. Schawlow Award is presented annually to individuals who have made outstanding career-long contributions to laser science and engineering. The award, named after Nobel Laureate Dr. Arthur L. Schawlow, recognizes excellence in basic and applied research in laser science, leading to advancements in fundamental understanding and the practical application of laser technologies. As part of the award, Dr. Sugioka received a plaque, a silver medal, a lifetime membership to LIA, and a $2,000 honorarium.
Reflecting on his award, Dr. Sugioka stated, “Once again, I am very honored to receive the prestigious LIA Arthur L. Schawlow Award and would like to thank LIA. I enjoyed ICALEO last week and was happy to meet many friends there. It is a tremendous honor to receive this recognition from LIA, an organization that has been instrumental in fostering the development and application of laser technology. I am deeply grateful to my colleagues and collaborators worldwide who have supported my research journey.”
LIA congratulates Dr. Sugioka on this well-deserved recognition and thanks him for his continued contributions to the advancement of laser technology and its safe application.
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