LSO Workshop: Laser Alignment Training

Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) has modernized its Laser Alignment Training to strengthen hands on competency, reinforce best practices, and verify individual proficiency through demonstrated performance. This presentation describes the program’s evolution, including key lessons learned from a 2024 alignment incident that drove the program’s restructuring. Attendees will be walked through the hands-on practical course design, including the dedicated training lab buildout, core laser safety expectations and common alignment hazards associated with laser work.

Karla Armstrong is a Laser Safety Officer at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, bringing a unique combination of hands on laser engineering experience and data driven program leadership to the DOE laser safety community. She began her career as a Laser Optical Engineer at Sandia National Laboratories, where she built and tested prototype laser systems for environmental remote sensing, supported field demonstrations, and contributed to technology transfer efforts. Karla has also worked in the EdTech industry, leading outcomes analytics, quality assurance, and reporting efforts that supported large scale international education and workforce programs. She holds a BS in Laser and Optical Engineering from Oregon Institute of Technology, is a Certified Laser Safety Officer (CLSO), and has contributed to peer reviewed publications and patents in infrared chemical sensing and laser based imaging technologies.