Champlin, Minnesota: PRIMA North America, Inc., the North American subsidiary of PRIMA INDUSTRIE S.p.A., Torino, Italy, a world-leading manufacturer of industrial laser systems, announced today the appointment of Peter G. Thompson to the position of Technical Director for LASERDYNE SYSTEMS.

            In announcing the appointment, Terry L. VanderWert, President, stated that Thompson’s duties would include a combination of advanced process development at the LASERDYNE SYSTEMS facility in Champlin, MN. Thompson will provide technical support for LASERDYNE customers worldwide with emphasis on Europe and Asia.  “This addition to our staff is part of our strategic goal of growing the business for LASERDYNE products in Europe and Asia.  These are areas where LASERDYNE products have sold well in the past.  We believe our customers worldwide will benefit from after sales support and process development equal to what is available in North America.  Both existing and new customers will have the advantage of Peter’s significant experience in applying laser processes to manufacturing, especially where users can take advantage of the advanced LASERDYNE features.”

            “Peter is a valuable addition to LASERDYNE because of his background in developing innovative laser technology and his previous work with multinational companies, many of whom are LASERDYNE customers,” stated Mr. VanderWert.

            Mr. Thompson has over 35 years experience with international laser and aerospace industries including heading his own company specializing in industrial laser applications and training.  During this period, Mr. Thompson worked with a wide variety of aerospace, automotive and general manufacturers formulating custom laser material processing solutions, trouble-shooting existing laser processes and developing training programs for engineers and system operators.

            Prior to starting his own firm, Mr. Thompson was a senior process engineer for Lumonics, Ltd. for 10 years.  He was responsible for ground-breaking laser processing projects including the introduction of laser drilling to Rolls Royce and laser welding to Gillette.

             Thompson also held senior engineering positions with Lucas Aerospace, Ltd. and MTE, Ltd.  He began his career with Marconi Co., Ltd and as a student apprentice with Compton Parkinson, Ltd.  A frequent contributor to laser processing conferences worldwide, he holds engineering degrees in mechanical and electrical engineering.

             For more information about LASERDYNE SYSTEMS, call 763-433-3700. 

            Email: sales@prima-na.com  or visit www.prima-na.com

            Write to LASERDYNE SYSTEMS, PRIMA North America, Inc., 8600 109^th Avenue North, #400, Champlin, Minnesota 55316.  Fax: 763-433-3701.