L*A*I was established in 1980 as an engineering consulting
firm providing a range of services primarily in the aerospace
industry. Thomas Lieb joined the firm in the mid- 1980s,
(becoming President in 1988), with the goal of expanding services
to the commercial laser industry. Since then, the company's
primary focus gradually shifted to design, safety design,
marketing, project management, and product development in
the industrial laser market. During the ensuing growth of
the company, L*A*I has managed complete R&D projects, developed
turn-key cutting systems, integrated laser optical systems,
developed laser safety and management training programs, and
conducted laser process development and qualification studies
from Switzerland to Singapore. L*A*I currently consists of a
core team of Consultants offering extensive and diverse services
to the commercial laser industry. The company maintains a
significant percent of its time in management consulting and
related contract services, (including conversion of defense
technology to commercial use). This activity is
balanced by a substantial dedication to assistance of small and medium-sized
businesses, in all types of industrial laser related tasks, from process and system
development to major safety designs and compliance with local and national, or
regional laws.
L*A*I, and its associates, maintain membership and participation in
LEOMA (Laser & Electro-optics Manufacturer's Association); LIA
(Laser Institute of America); AWS C7C (American Welding Society,
Subcommittee on Laser Welding); ANSI B11.21 (American National
Standards Institute, committee on Laser Processing Machine Tools);
and IEC (International Electrotechnical Committee) and ISO
(International Standards Organization) committees on Laser Standardization.