ASSOCIATION NEWS WELCOME to the December edition of the Laser User


We are in the last quarter of 2025 and I would like to reflect on some 2025 UK laser and photonic initiatives that I have come across, focusing on advance developments across a range of sectors:


• Lasers4MaaS, a UK-led Horizon Europe project launched in early 2025, pioneering AI-assisted laser welding and digital manufacturing-as-a-service, to strengthen sustainable production in renewables, automotive and aerospace industries.


• The National Healthcare Photonics Centre, continuing to translate laser- based technologies into diagnostic and therapeutic tools that improve lives.


• The DragonFire programme, backed by a nearly £1 billion government investment in directed-energy systems, focusing on the advancement of engineering limits of precision optics and beam control — innovations that will benefit both defence and civilian sectors alike.


It is remarkable how just a few short years ago, many of the innovations we now take for granted in laser technology were still on the horizon. Today, these tools are transforming industries and opening doors we could only imagine before.


I would also like to mention the critical role of young and emerging talents in our community. In today’s rapidly evolving world, curiosity, passion, and fresh perspectives are critical to reshape the landscape of science and technology. As leaders and mentors, it is our responsibility to nurture younger generations, providing them with the guidance, resources, and opportunities they need to flourish.


Each issue of the Laser User is a snapshot of this evolution, capturing trends and inspiring developments that define our community. I hope you enjoy reading this winter edition.


Image: 4JET


PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE •Paola De Bono


paola.debono@twi.co.uk


AILU STEERING COMMITTEE 2025-26 TWI


PRESIDENT: Paola De Bono


VICE PRESIDENTS: Richard Carter Stan Wilford


Heriot-Watt University IPG Photonics


EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR: Dave MacLellan


Elected until 2026 Chris Peters Pratik Shukla Jamie Costello


Elected until 2027 Ben Mills


Donald Risbridger Wojciech Suder


Anode Marketing


UKAEA MTC


Coherent


University of Southampton Heriot-Watt University Cranfield University


Elected until 2028 Lewis Jones


Bethan Smith


Co-opted until 2026 Tom Chaffer


Clive Grafton-Reed Cliff Jolliffe Tony Jones


Danijela Rostohar Chris Waters


OpTek MTC


Loughborough University


Nazanin Mirhosseini University of Manchester Mike O'Key


TRUMPF


Rolls-Royce PI


Cyan Tec Systems Coventry University Micrometric


Past presidents and founder members are also able to attend committee meetings. Anyone wishing to join the AILU Steering Committee please contact the Executive Director.


WELCOME... NEW MEMBERS


Fabertec Group UK Greenfields Energy Group Laser Automation UK Laserax


Restorative Techniques Winbro Group World Machinery


LASER USER 118 DECEMBER 2025 | 5


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