ALEXANDER SIMMONS
Oviedo,USA
Summary
Bachelor of Science graduate in Photonic Science and Engineering from the University of Central Florida with specialized experience in optical communication systems and laser-based data transmission. Skilled in designing, testing, and optimizing free-space optical links, photodiode-based receivers, and microcontroller-driven signal processing. Strong foundation in laser safety standards, modulation techniques, and high-speed data transmission. Well-prepared to contribute to innovative telecommunications solutions involving fiber optics, wireless optical links, and advanced photonic technologies.
Overview
6
6
years of professional experience
Work History
Manufacturing Engineer and Laser Systems Intern
LENSAR
02.2024 - 08.2024
- Conducted detailed time studies on the full manufacturing and assembly process of LENSAR ALLY® systems, identifying workflow inefficiencies and supporting optimization from initial build to final integration.
- Assisted in the development of an in-house Reflectance Standard calibration test for LENSAR ALLY® machines, eliminating the need for outsourced calibration and reducing associated costs and lead times.
- Developed and reviewed comprehensive Work Instructions for various manufacturing processes.
- Created and managed data forms to streamline process documentation and tracking.
- Assisted with ATP (Acceptance Test Procedure) bench operations for IR laser systems.
- Supported manufacturing and troubleshooting of high-precision laser machinery.
- Gained hands-on experience with the Onefive Origami XPS Femtosecond Laser (NKT Photonics).
- Calibrated and tested laser performance using BeamGage software.
- Utilized APE PulseLink Autocorrelator for pulse characterization.
- Operated M² measurement equipment (Ophir BeamSquared system) to assess beam quality.
- Analyzed pulse stability, duration, and repetition metrics.
General Laborer Construction Worker
Southland Specialties INC.
10.2018 - 08.2019
- Worked under a subcontractor operating in association with Florida Power and Lighting (FPL).
- Worked within the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and Kennedy Space Center, contributing to the establishment of the electrical infrastructure for Amazon's "Blue Origin" venture.
- Assisted in the meticulous planning, installation, and maintenance of crucial power poles and the stringing of power lines to ensure the seamless connection between the electrical substation and the project's central location.
- Undertook site preparation duties by diligently removing debris and mitigating potential safety hazards.
- Operated a variety of equipment with a strong emphasis on safety and maintained effective communication with ground personnel.
- Proficiently managed the relocation, securement, and loading/unloading of electrical equipment.
- Performed equipment maintenance, including the replacement of worn components and minor repairs, such as belts and pulleys.
- Demonstrated a consistent record of punctuality, adherence to appropriate attire, and unwavering dedication to executing all assigned tasks.
- General Worker
Education
Bachelor of Science - Photonic Science And Engineering
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL08-2025
Associate of Arts - General Studies
Eastern Florida State College
Cocoa, FL12.2021
Skills
- MATLAB
- Mathcad
- Multisim
- Microsoft Office
- Python
- Zemax
- Optical Alignment
- XILINX FPGA Vivado HLx design tools
- Proficient with digital and analog test equipment to include, Multimeter, oscilloscope, Function Generator, and various Interferometers
- Experienced with using Large Learning Machines (Chat GPT, Poe, ChatSonic, Perplexity, etc)
- Hazardous Waste Disposal
- Hazardous Waste Contamination
- Equipment Monitoring
- Safety Awareness
- Workplace Safety
- Materials Transportation
- Vehicle Operations
- Equipment Operation
- Tool Use
- Tool Management
- Process improvement
- Cross-functional teamwork
- AutoCAD
- 3D printing and additive manufacturing
Accomplishments
- Collaborated on the development of a terrestrial free-space optical communication system capable of transmitting binary-encoded data using high-power lasers.
- Designed and tested a complete transmitter-receiver system using pulse-coded modulation and TTL-modulated 980 nm laser diodes for line-of-sight digital communication.
- Integrated photodiode receivers and transimpedance amplifier circuits to decode laser pulses into digital messages, displayed on an LCD via microcontroller.
- Conducted optical simulations (Zemax), beam quality assessments, and lab-based experiments simulating a 1-mile free-space optical link over a 50-foot test range.
- Researched and selected key optical and electrical components, including aspheric lenses, dielectric mirrors, and silicon PIN photodiode for signal integrity.
- Co-developed power-efficient analog and digital subsystems using MSP430 microcontrollers and custom PCBs, maintaining sub-5W system power.
- Implemented software for binary conversion, encoding, transmission control, and decoding using C and Python environments.
- Contributed to cost-effective system fabrication and prototype iterations, including PCB layout, enclosure design, and optical alignment.
- Addressed design constraints involving IEC laser safety standards and optical interference mitigation.
- Helped define stretch goals involving bidirectional communication, AI-based decoding, and emergency off-grid deployment potential.
Free-Space Laser Communication System
University of Central Florida – CREOL, ECE & CPE Joint Capstone Project
Extracurricular & Recreational Activities
Engaging in golf as a recreational pursuit during my off-hours. A dedicated enthusiast of 3D printing technology Enjoys the recreational activity of longboarding in scenic locales of East Coast Florida.
Timeline
Manufacturing Engineer and Laser Systems Intern
LENSAR
02.2024 - 08.2024
General Laborer Construction Worker
Southland Specialties INC.
10.2018 - 08.2019
Associate of Arts - General Studies
Eastern Florida State College
Bachelor of Science - Photonic Science And Engineering
University of Central Florida
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