The Best of Both Worlds
At LASER COMPONENTS, students tackle real-world challenges. For many, it’s the first step toward a career.
At the university, research is a valuable asset. But what happens to a thesis once a student has completed their studies? Does it disappear into an archive, or does it become something with real practical value?
Students who write their bachelor’s or master’s thesis at LASER COMPONENTS aren’t just working toward a good grade. They tackle real-world challenges in photonics and experience firsthand how theoretical insights are transformed into technical solutions. For many, this marks the first step toward a professional career.
Close collaboration with colleges and universities is a long-standing tradition at the Olching-based photonics company. Students gain valuable hands-on experience, while the company benefits from new ideas, fresh perspectives, and direct contact with the professionals of tomorrow.
Science Meets Industry
Students see it much the same way. While academic questions take center stage at universities, industry gives them the opportunity to experience practical applications firsthand. The examples of Sebastian Wiehler and Patrick Renken show just how well these two worlds complement each other.
»What’s interesting about my topic is its practical relevance and the opportunity to work on a technically significant problem«
says Patrick Renken.
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For his bachelor’s thesis, he is currently working on optimizing beam profiles in laser modules.
Sebastian Wiehler now works as a technologist in the production of fiber-optic assemblies. For him, the choice between academia and industry comes down primarily to personal interests: “It quickly became clear to me that I wanted to go into industry. There, I can work with applied physics every day.”
Practical Innovations
The topics for bachelor’s and master’s theses at LASER COMPONENTS do not arise in a vacuum. They are tied to products and technologies that are later used in scientific instruments, industrial equipment, and high-tech systems.
The laser modules Patrick is studying in his bachelor’s thesis are used, for example, in measurement systems and manufacturing equipment. To determine how the laser beam can be tailored as precisely as possible to a specific application, he is investigating diffraction effects and their influence on the beam profile, among other factors.
In his master’s thesis, Sebastian focused on quantum nanolaminates, an innovative technology for coating laser optics. His goal was to improve the performance and efficiency of optical components.
Both examples show how challenging scientific questions can be linked to real-world applications. Students experience firsthand the impact their work can have beyond the lab.
Not an Ending, but a Beginning
At LASER COMPONENTS, students work closely with experienced development engineers, technologists, and subject matter experts, giving them access to the knowledge and experience of entire teams.
Patrick received extensive support from colleagues in development and production. Sebastian was able to draw not only on the experience of his official mentor but also on that of the entire development team. This openness is characteristic of the company: Students are not treated as temporary visitors. They quickly become an integral part of the team.
Patrick particularly appreciates the open and supportive atmosphere. Whenever questions arise, there’s always someone willing to help and share their knowledge. As a result, students not only gain valuable practical experience but also build connections while working on their thesis that can later open up career opportunities.
After completing his master’s thesis, Sebastian stayed with the company but moved into a completely different area of photonics. At first glance, his work on quantum nanolaminates may seem to have little to do with his current role as a fiber technology engineer. Nevertheless, he continues to benefit from the experience he gained while working on his thesis.
His decision to accept the offer from LASER COMPONENTS, however, wasn’t based solely on the professional opportunities. Equally important were the camaraderie within the team and the variety of responsibilities in an industry that is constantly evolving. In the end, his master’s thesis proved to be the ideal stepping stone into his professional career.
»For us, theses are much more than just a recruiting tool«
says Dr. Lars Mechold,
Technical Director at LASER COMPONENTS.
»They foster a genuine exchange of knowledge between academic research and industrial practice.«
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