Advantages of on-the-job practical experience for laser training

Australia’s aesthetic industry is not slowing down, and the demand from employers for more staff continues to escalate. Mastering laser and IPL treatments is a strategic career move. While traditional training facilities offer structured learning, gaining practical experience on the job provides unique advantages for aspiring laser professionals. From real-world application to cost savings, on-the-job training is a powerful way to build skills in cosmetic and surgical laser applications. Here’s why it’s a smart choice.

Real-world application and client interaction

On-the-job training immerses you in actual clinic environments, where you apply laser safety and techniques directly to clients under supervision. Unlike facility-based simulations, you encounter diverse skin types, are not locked into learning on one type of laser/IPL, will see good volumes of presentations like melasma or tattoos, and can get exposure to 2025’s trending technologies, such as AI-driven picosecond lasers. This hands-on exposure hones your ability to handle real-time challenges, such as adjusting IPL settings for melanin-rich skin, managing a busy clinic environment with competing priorities, and getting to know your client base. Many employers also prefer to have you trained on the job, as it exposes you to their culture and work preferences.

Cost-effective and time-efficient learning

Training at a facility often involves time away from paid work, travel, parking, accommodation, childcare and high course fees, which can exceed $100 an hour for hands-on experience. On-the-job learning eliminates these costs, as you train within your workplace, often at no extra charge. For busy professionals, this saves time, allowing you to earn while learning. Flexible online theory modules, paired with workplace practice, let you meet CPD requirements for Ahpra without pausing your career too. The efficiency built into this is that you are being orientated into your workplace as you hone your practical skills. If you are in Queensland (Qld) or Western Australia (WA), your supervisor will be a full licensee and you will be able to log your hours for your full license. Winning!

Tailored mentorship and industry connections

Learning on the job means direct mentorship from experienced clinicians who understand your clinic’s specific devices and protocols. Unlike standardised facility training, this personalised guidance aligns with state regulations, such as Qld and WA licensing, and addresses your unique career goals. You also build networks with colleagues and device suppliers, opening doors to roles like laser safety officer or clinic manager. On-the-job training fosters relationships that a majority of professionals cite as the key to career advancement in aesthetics.

Adapting to 2025 innovations in real time

The aesthetic field is evolving with trends like hyper-personalised IPL and combination therapies. On-the-job training keeps you ahead by exposing you to cutting-edge equipment, like multi-wavelength picosecond lasers, as clinics adopt them. You learn device-specific nuances and safety protocols in real-world settings, reducing risks and enhancing outcomes. This adaptability gives you an edge over facility-trained peers who may face an implementation lag when transitioning to new technology.

Why choose on-the-job training?

On-the-job practical experience offers unmatched relevance, cost savings, and networking in laser aesthetics. Paired with evidence-based online courses for theory and compliance, it’s a career accelerator for aspiring laser therapist and laser technicians, beauty therapists, nurses and other Ahpra registered health professionals.

Ready to excel in laser treatments? Start with our industry accredited online training and leverage workplace experience and get your career going efficiently and effectively.