SpaceX engineer presents workshop on handheld laser welding

Clark State College is bringing cutting-edge manufacturing technology to the region with Laser Precision: An Industry-Focused Handheld Laser Welding Build Workshop, a hands-on experience designed for business and industry leaders interested in the future of advanced manufacturing.

The free workshop will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on March 20 at Clark State’s main campus, 570 E. Leffel Lane, and will feature Rex Alexandre, president and principal engineer of the Handheld Laser Institute, an American Welding Society certified welding inspector and a former welding engineer at SpaceX.

Designed to help regional leaders explore emerging technologies, and presented in partnership with IPG Photonics, a global leader in fiber laser technology, the event will show how handheld laser welding is transforming manufacturing by boosting efficiency, cutting prep time and enabling the joining of materials. Attendees will experience live demonstrations, safety guidance and guided welding sessions using the LightWELD systems alongside industry experts. The event will also showcase Clark State’s laser material processing programs and workforce trainings.

Widely recognized for helping accelerate the adoption of handheld laser welding across multiple industries, Alexandre is, a certified welding educator and a consultant for companies around the world on advanced welding technologies and manufacturing processes.

“Clark State is committed to ensuring our region’s workforce and manufacturers have access to the most advanced technologies shaping the future of industry,” said Adam Parrillo, Ph.D., dean of business and applied technologies. “Hosting leaders like Rex Alexandre and partnering with IPG Photonics demonstrates how Clark State continues to operate at the leading edge of manufacturing education and workforce training.”

Generally, laser machining offers a fast, cost-effective way to cut, etch mark and join materials compared with traditional techniques.

Space for the workshop is limited and advance registration is required. The deadline to register is March 16. Register at go.clarkstate.edu/ipg-26.

For more information about Clark State’s engineering and welding programs, visit clarkstate.edu.