FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Orlando, FL – November 7, 2024 – The Laser Institute (LIA), a global leader in laser safety, training, and industry advancement, is proud to announce the election of three new Trustees to its Board. Dr. Aiko Narazaki, Prof. Antti Salminen, and David Bothner will each serve a three-year term from January 1, 2025, through December 31, 2027. The election results were officially announced during LIA’s Annual Meeting at ICALEO on Wednesday, November 6, 2024.
Dr. Aiko Narazaki is the Principal Research Manager and Leader of the Innovative Laser Processing Group at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST). She has made significant contributions to laser processing technology, notably in advanced laser techniques such as Laser-Induced Back-side Wet Etching (LIBWE) and Femtosecond-Laser Direct Write (Fs-LDW) for biomedical and electronic applications. Dr. Narazaki has also supported the laser processing community through her extensive committee work and student mentoring roles. Her expertise and dedication to innovation make her an invaluable addition to LIA’s Board.
Prof. Antti Salminen, D.Sc. (Tech.), is a professor at the University of Turku specializing in laser processing and additive manufacturing. With over 35 years of experience in laser materials processing, particularly in laser welding and additive manufacturing, Prof. Salminen has led numerous research and development initiatives that shape the industry today. He has also been instrumental in developing national education curricula related to laser processing and serves as chairman of the Finnish laser user’s society. His extensive industry and academic background will bring a wealth of knowledge and guidance to LIA’s efforts to advance laser safety and education.
David Bothner is the Vice President of Business and Product Development at NoIR Insight, where he has spent 27 years focusing on laser safety eyewear and windows in the product development, certification, new application, new business, and new product areas. David is deeply involved in the standards and safety community, serving on various ANSI, ISO, and SAE committees dedicated to laser safety and eye protection. His commitment to laser safety, paired with his extensive experience in product development, will greatly benefit LIA’s strategic objectives, particularly in advancing best practices across the industry.
“We are excited to welcome Dr. Narazaki, Prof. Salminen, and Mr. Bothner to our Board of Trustees,” said Shaun Oleson, Executive Director-Designate of LIA. “Each of them brings a distinct perspective and depth of experience in laser processing, safety, and research, which will be critical as we continue to expand our mission globally. Their contributions will help shape the future and ensure LIA remains at the forefront of laser safety and its applications.”
The newly elected Trustees bring diverse and complementary expertise that aligns with LIA’s ongoing commitment to innovation, education, and safety in the laser industry. LIA looks forward to their leadership and contributions as the organization continues to advance its role as a trusted authority in laser technology and safety.
About The Laser Institute
Founded in 1968 by laser pioneers, including Dr. Theodore Maiman and Dr. Arthur L. Schawlow, The Laser Institute (LIA) is renowned for its contributions to laser applications and safety. As an ANSI-accredited standards developer, LIA provides essential safety guidelines and rigorous training for Laser Safety Officers (LSOs) across diverse applications in industry and medicine. Flagship events, including ICALEO and the International Laser Safety Conference (ILSC), promote collaboration and innovation, underscoring LIA’s commitment to advancing laser technology and its safe use.
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