BIGGER IN TEXAS
Your business isn’t built by machines alone —
it’s built by people, ideas, and momentum.
experience the conversations, capability,
and connections that move businesses forward.
MAY 28-29, 2026 | ROUND ROCK, TEXAS
THE COUNTDOWN IS ON.
There’s a difference between hearing about opportunity — and seeing it up close.
LazerCON is built to bring capability, production, and business insight into one focused environment. It’s where open architecture technology is demonstrated live, where real market opportunities are explored openly, and where experienced operators share what’s working right now.
NEW: All-Inclusive Bundle Package
Two tickets. Three nights. One smart decision.
Designed for those ready to commit and maximize the experience.
- Two LazerCON 2026 Tickets
- Hotel Room at Kalahari Resort (Wed–Fri nights)
$170 in Savings
LIMITED QUANTITIES AVAILABLE
LAZERCON 2026 SPEAKERS
Built for Bigger Thinking.
Day 1 - May 28, 2026
TONG LI
- May 28, 2026
- 9:00 AM
Post AI Personalization Economy
What happens when AI can create almost everything? Elon Musk envisions a future of abundance—but when efficiency becomes endless, a deeper question emerges: what will people truly value? In this session, Tong Li reveals why the next great market may belong to businesses that create what AI cannot: emotion, identity, meaning, and personal connection.
Joe & Melissa Rabideau
- May 28, 2026
- 10:15 AM
Tinkering outside the box
In this session, TinkrLab will challenge the way you think about your laser and show you how to go beyond standard engraving work. You’ll explore creative and unconventional approaches to growing your business, including leveraging 3D models, integrating AI into your workflow, and tapping into overlooked markets like education.
Rather than just ideas, this session is focused on real application. You’ll walk away with four practical ways to generate new income streams, along with proven examples and strategies you can start using immediately.
bonnie gilbert
- May 28, 2026
- 1:00 PM
Laser Entreprenuership: Tips for Turning Passion into Profit
Bonnie Gilbert shares how she built a flexible laser business that supports her retirement lifestyle without sacrificing freedom or family time. Learn practical insights on promoting your business locally, managing time effectively, improving your skills, and turning creativity into reliable income on your own terms.
matthew buxton
- May 29, 2026
- 3:30 PM
MODERN MEMORIALIZATION:
LASER & AI TECHNOLOGY IN DEATH CARE
AI is making its way into our everyday lives so why not put it to work for us. The use of AI type programs are effective ways to create and design images. Let’s explore the different options and apps/programs to expand from the days of old of having to have a degree in graphic design to accomplish anything.
LAZERCON 2026 SPEAKERS
BUILT FOR BIGGER THINKING
Day 1 - May 28, 2026
TONG LI
- May 28, 2026
- 9:00 AM
Post AI Personalization Economy
What happens when AI can create almost everything? Elon Musk envisions a future of abundance—but when efficiency becomes endless, a deeper question emerges: what will people truly value? In this session, Tong Li reveals why the next great market may belong to businesses that create what AI cannot: emotion, identity, meaning, and personal connection.
Joe & Melissa Rabideau
- May 28, 2026
- 10:15 PM
TINKERING OUTSIDE THE BOX
In this session, TinkrLab will challenge the way you think about your laser and show you how to go beyond standard engraving work. You’ll explore creative and unconventional approaches to growing your business, including leveraging 3D models, integrating AI into your workflow, and tapping into overlooked markets like education.
Rather than just ideas, this session is focused on real application. You’ll walk away with four practical ways to generate new income streams, along with proven examples and strategies you can start using immediately.
Bonnie Gilbert
- May 28, 2026
- 1:00 PM
LASER ENTREPRENEURSHIP: TIPS FOR
TURNING PASSION INTO PROFIT
In this session, TinkrLab will challenge the way you think about your laser and show you how to go beyond standard engraving work. You’ll explore creative and unconventional approaches to growing your business, including leveraging 3D models, integrating AI into your workflow, and tapping into overlooked markets like education.
Rather than just ideas, this session is focused on real application. You’ll walk away with four practical ways to generate new income streams, along with proven examples and strategies you can start using immediately.
Matthew Buxton
- May 28, 2026
- 3:30 PM
MODERN MEMORIALIZATION: LASER & AI TECHNOLOGY IN DEATH CARE
AI is making its way into our everyday lives so why not put it to work for us. The use of AI type programs are effective ways to create and design images. Let’s explore the different options and apps/programs to expand from the days of old of having to have a degree in graphic design to accomplish anything.
Day 2 - May 29, 2026
Mark Collier & Will Louie
- May 29, 2026
- 9:00 AM
How to Scale Your Business While Building Something Remarkable
Growing a laser engraving business takes more than a great machine – it takes the right strategy and a business worth remarking about. in this two-part session, you’ll learn how to generate more revenue without adding more hours, and how to build the kind of business that stands out, earns loyalty, and gives people a reason to talk about you – driving the kind of growth that actually lasts.
LANA RICHARDS
- May 28, 2026
- 10:15 AM
Just Fortin’ Around: From Firearms to Fundraisers
See how Lana Richards turned one laser into a powerful tool for museum operations, retail sales, and fundraising growth at Fort Chadbourne. From custom signage and engraved gift shop items to donor walls, memorial bricks, and premium sponsorship pieces, this session reveals practical ways to create new revenue while supporting a meaningful mission.
matthew buxton
- May 29, 2026
- 1:00 PM
MODERN MEMORIALIZATION:
LASER & AI TECHNOLOGY IN DEATH CARE
AI is making its way into our everyday lives so why not put it to work for us. The use of AI type programs are effective ways to create and design images. Let’s explore the different options and apps/programs to expand from the days of old of having to have a degree in graphic design to accomplish anything.
Day 2 - May 29, 2026
Mark Collier & Will Louie
- May 29, 2026
- 9:00 AM
How to Scale Your Business While Building Something Remarkable
Growing a laser engraving business takes more than a great machine – it takes the right strategy and a business worth remarking about. in this two-part session, you’ll learn how to generate more revenue without adding more hours, and how to build the kind of business that stands out, earns loyalty, and gives people a reason to talk about you – driving the kind of growth that actually lasts.
Lana Richards
- May 29, 2026
- 10:30 AM
JUST FORTIN’ AROUND: FROM FIREARMS
TO FUNDRAISERS
See how Lana Richards turned one laser into a powerful tool for museum operations, retail sales, and fundraising growth at Fort Chadbourne. From custom signage and engraved gift shop items to donor walls, memorial bricks, and premium sponsorship pieces, this session reveals practical ways to create new revenue while supporting a meaningful mission.
matthew buxton
- May 29, 2026
- 1:00 PM
MODERN MEMORIALIZATION: LASER & AI TECHNOLOGY IN DEATH CARE
AI is making its way into our everyday lives so why not put it to work for us. The use of AI type programs are effective ways to create and design images. Let’s explore the different options and apps/programs to expand from the days of old of having to have a degree in graphic design to accomplish anything.
Execution-Focused Breakouts
LET’S JIG IT!
Daniel Harster
LET’S JIG IT!
Learn how laser jigs can improve accuracy, speed, and production efficiency in any workshop. Daniel Harster will show you how to design repeatable setups that reduce waste, eliminate guesswork, and streamline batch production. Discover practical jig strategies that help turn your laser into a faster, cleaner, and more profitable tool.
Tinkering Outside the Box – Hands-On Workshop
Joe & Melissa Rabideau
Tinkering Outside the Box – Hands-On Workshop
Following the main session, attendees will have the opportunity to dive deeper into the topics that interest them most through a more interactive, workshop-style experience.
This breakout session will split into three focused groups, allowing you to get more personalized guidance and ask specific questions:
- 3D Model Techniques (Joe Rabideau)
Learn how to incorporate 3D models into your workflow, expand your capabilities, and create more advanced, high-value projects. - AI Tools & Workflow (Ken Adair)
Explore how AI can be used to speed up design, generate ideas, and improve efficiency in your laser business. - Education & School Opportunities (Melissa)
Gain insight into working with schools, building relationships, and tapping into the education market as a unique revenue stream.
This workshop is designed to be interactive and discussion-based, giving you the chance to ask questions, get real-time feedback, and walk away with practical next steps tailored to your interests.
Finding Your Niche
Jeff Nelson
Finding Your Niche
At an age (70 years old) when sensible people have already retired, Jeff purchased his first laser and started Bolt Laserworks. Jeff is a strong proponent of ‘Finding you niche’ in business, focusing on profitability and target marketing. He advises “Don’t join the hobby laser crowd, become a laser professional.” Jeff also stresses making maximum use of your ‘AP Lazer Advantage’ and shares the many practical things he has learned along the way.
MASTERING THE BASICS OF
PHOTO ENGRAVING
Derek Li
Mastering the Basics of Photo Engraving
Photo engraving can become one of the most valuable services you offer when done correctly. In this session, learn the fundamentals of preparing artwork, improving image quality, selecting materials, and dialing in settings for clear, professional results customers will be proud to purchase.
LIGHTBURN TIPS & TRICKS
Austin Diano
LightBurn Tips & Tricks
New to LightBurn or still getting comfortable? Join AP Lazer’s Austin Diano for this beginner-friendly session, where you’ll learn simple ways to design projects right inside the software, touch up photos using built-in tools, and explore the newest 2.0 features. You’ll also pick up helpful tips – like recovering your work after a power loss – so you can create with confidence.
AP Lazer Basics
Calvin Nguyen
AP Lazer Basics
New to AP Lazer or looking to build a stronger foundation? This session covers essential machine operation, core features, maintenance basics, and beginner best practices to help you work safely and confidently. A great starting point for new owners or anyone wanting a refresher.
SETTING UP E-COMMERCE WITH SHOPIFY
AP Staff
Setting up E-Commerce with Shopify
Learn how to launch and grow a profitable online store using Shopify, tailored specifically for laser businesses. This session covers product setup, pricing strategies, SEO basics, and converting traffic into sales. Walk away with a clear, actionable plan to start selling your engraved products online with confidence and consistency.
Where Operators Gather
Set in Round Rock, just north of Austin, LazerCON 2026 unfolds in a destination built for scale. The Kalahari Resort creates a centralized environment where attendees can stay, gather, and engage without distraction — keeping the focus on connection, capability, and opportunity.
hotel block info
Although the official room block is now closed, attendees can still find accommodations conveniently located less than 1 mile from the venue.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Round Rock TX
3900 E Palm Valley Blvd, Round Rock, TX 78665
(737) 346-6652
LAZERCON VENDORS
LazerCON is built to bring capability, production, and business insight into one focused environment. It’s where open architecture technology is demonstrated live, where real market opportunities are explored openly, and where experienced operators share what’s working right now.
what you’ll experience at lazercon
Live Capability in Action
Open architecture and dual-laser technology demonstrated in real time — not slides, not simulations. See how flexibility and scale translate into opportunity.
High-Margin Market Exposure
Explore emerging and established market segments with strong revenue potential. Understand where demand is growing and how others are positioning themselves to meet it.
Real-World Business Perspective
Hear directly from owners who are actively building, adapting, and expanding. Gain insight into how they approach pricing, production, and growth.
Meaningful Industry Access
Connect with experienced operators, industry partners, vendors, and the AP Lazer team — all in one focused environment designed for conversation and connection.
LazerCON is designed for individuals serious about expanding what’s possible with a laser.
Current AP Lazer Owners
Entrepreneurs Exploring the Laser Industry
Business Owners Seeking Diversification
Creative Professionals Moving Toward Production
Current AP Lazer Owners
Entrepreneurs Exploring the Laser Industry
Business Owners Seeking Diversification
Creative Professionals Moving Toward Production
If you’re evaluating growth, expansion, or entry into the laser space,
this is where perspective expands.
Capability, production, and business insight
in one focused environment.
MAY 28-29, 2026 | ROUND ROCK, TEXAS
AP LAZER IS CHANGING LIVES.
FAQS
Got questions? We have Answers.
No. LazerCON is designed for both current AP Lazer owners and entrepreneurs exploring the laser industry. Whether you're expanding an existing business or evaluating your first machine, the event is built to provide valuable perspective.
Yes. Sessions are designed to provide insight at multiple levels — from those entering the industry to experienced operators looking to grow and diversify.
Your ticket includes two full days of conference access, live demonstrations, business presentations, breakout sessions, vendor access, and networking opportunities with industry professionals and the AP Lazer team. Enjoy light breakfast on day one and lunch on both days. Registrants will also receive a swag bag and official LazerCON 2026 tshirt.
Absolutely! Open architecture and dual-laser systems will be demonstrated live, allowing attendees to see capability across materials and applications in real time.
LazerCON 2026 will take place May 28–29 at the Kalahari Resort in Round Rock, Texas, just outside Austin.
Yes. A dedicated room block has been secured at the Kalahari Resort for attendees. Details and booking information are available above on this page.
Yes. Registration is refundable toward the purchase of a new AP Lazer system. Please speak with a member of our team for full details.
Expect two focused days built around real capability, real business insight, and meaningful connection. LazerCON is designed to expand perspective and expose attendees to new opportunities within the laser industry.
