For nearly 40 years, the Club Laser et Procédés (CLP) has been bringing together key players in the laser industry and highlighting those who contribute to its growth. Through this series of interviews, we invite you to meet the CLP board members, discover their backgrounds, their visions, and their commitments to the future of laser technology in France.
Today, we speak with Frédéric Mermet, micro-machining expert at IREPA LASER. Passionate about laser technology since his early days, he has built a career rich in experimentation and innovation—at the crossroads of research, precision, and creativity. He shares with us his perspective on the evolution of laser technology, his involvement within the CLP, and his ambitions for the French laser industry.
What has been your career path and your first encounter with laser technology?
“After earning a university degree in mechanics and materials, I continued my studies with an apprenticeship at IREPA LASER, where I completely discovered the world of lasers.
Back then, the word laser made me think more of Darth Vader or Superman!
It was truly a revelation when I stepped into this universe. I was immediately captivated by the high-tech environment, the constant innovation, and the outstanding performance of this breakthrough tool.
Over my 25-year career, I’ve had the opportunity to explore many applications: welding, cutting, marking, drilling, and micro-machining—working with various laser technologies, from ultraviolet to far infrared, on all kinds of materials—and even on living tissue!
What still fascinates me today is the laser’s ability to continually push the boundaries of precision and industrial creativity.”
What motivated you to get involved in the CLP Board of Directors?
“What motivated me was the desire to help democratize laser technology and to promote the French contribution in this field.
The CLP is a wonderful and friendly community, where exchanges are meaningful and collective initiatives take shape naturally.
I wanted to contribute and support this collaborative dynamic that gives our industry its strength.”
What are your ambitions for the development of the CLP and the laser sector in France?
“My ambitions are simple but essential: to maintain and strengthen the quality of service that has made the CLP’s reputation over the years, to expand its audience, and to ensure balanced growth.
I also want to bring together more laser stakeholders in France and promote the colours of the ‘FrenchLAS’ internationally.
The idea is to amplify the national dynamic while preserving the spirit of openness and collaboration that defines our community.”
Why would you recommend a company to join the CLP?
“Joining the CLP is an opportunity to better understand laser technology, discover new fields of application, and benefit from the collective momentum of the industry.
It’s also a unique way to network, gain visibility, share experiences, and stay ahead of market trends through the exchanges and events organized by the club.
In short, it’s a gateway into a vibrant network of passionate and complementary experts.”
In your opinion, what are the future directions for the development of laser technology?
“The future of laser technology is taking shape around several exciting developments.
On one hand, the generation of secondary radiation sources, which opens up new prospects in research and industry.
On the other, the diversification of how ultrashort pulses are implemented and utilized, promising major advances in precision and efficiency.
And of course, applications in the medical and healthcare fields will continue to expand, as lasers provide solutions that are both powerful and non-invasive.”
Through his insights, Frédéric Mermet embodies the passion and curiosity that drive the French laser industry. His career reflects the wealth of expertise developed around this transformative technology, at the intersection of science, industry, and innovation.
His commitment to the CLP Board of Directors demonstrates his dedication to strengthening the cohesion of the laser community, encouraging collaboration between stakeholders, and promoting the international visibility of French know-how.
A big thank you to Frédéric Mermet for this inspiring exchange, reminding us how the CLP continues to play a key role as a catalyst for innovation, synergy, and competitiveness, in support of an industry that is ever more precise, sustainable, and high-performing.
