In memoriam: Nathaniel Quick, laser processing pioneer
On February 11th, the Laser Institute (LIA) announced the passing of Dr. Nathaniel R. Quick on February 4, 2025, in Lake Mary, FL, at the age of 75. Dr. Quick was a pioneering figure in laser processing of advanced materials and a dedicated leader within LIA, serving as its executive director from 2017 to 2023. His groundbreaking contributions to laser applications and his steadfast commitment to driving innovation have left an indelible mark on the industry and the global laser community.
Dr. Quick’s tenure with LIA spanned decades, during which he played an instrumental role in guiding the organization’s mission to promote lasers, laser applications, and laser safety worldwide. He was elected to the LIA Board of Directors multiple times, holding key leadership positions, including secretary (2004–2007), president-elect (2009), and president (2010). In 2006, he was named an LIA Fellow, an honor recognizing individuals widely known for exceptional professional contributions to both the laser community and LIA.
Beyond LIA, Dr. Quick was a renowned innovator and entrepreneur. As the founder, president, and CTO of AppliCote Associates, LLC, he pioneered advanced materials transformation using laser implantation at high pressures, amassing over 60 patents and publishing over 60 times throughout his prolific career. His work significantly impacted semiconductor processing, photonics, and energy technologies, positioning him as a leading authority in laser material interactions. His expertise was widely recognized through his affiliations with esteemed institutions, including serving as a guest researcher at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), Chairman of the Advisory Board and Graduate Faculty Scholar for Materials Science and Engineering at the University of Central Florida (UCF), and the Center for Research and Education in Optics and Lasers (CREOL) at UCF. He also served as a member of the Army Science Board.
For the full announcement, please visit www.lia.org/news-and-press/newsroom/2025-02-11/memoriam-dr-nathaniel-r-quick-april-20-1949-february-4-2025.