Greta Bučytė, who joined Light Conversion while still a student, has advanced at femtosecond speed throughout her career. In just six years, she has held various positions – starting as a laser technician and now leading international projects for spectroscopic system products.

What did you study, and why did you choose this field?

“You’re a physicist by nature,” we used to joke during our bachelor’s studies. I was inspired to study physics by a friend who came back from Vilnius on weekends and would tell me about her experiences in the physics program and the physicist community. Motivated by her, I chose applied physics as my first-choice subject and got accepted. My curiosity for science didn’t stop with my bachelor’s degree – I decided to pursue a master’s in optoelectronics materials and technology.

How did you find out about Light Conversion and what motivated you to join?

I first heard about Light Conversion and the laser industry while still in school. I joked with my mom that one day I would work in this field. Although I was more focused on organic optoelectronics during my bachelor’s, life took a different turn. A friend suggested I send my CV to Light Conversion, which marked the beginning of my journey there. Although I didn’t get the position I initially wanted, I was offered a great opportunity to grow within the company.

You started your career at Light Conversion in 2018 as a laser technician and are now a product manager. How did your career evolve within the company? What did you learn from each role?

My career at Light Conversion began in the Laser Department, starting with basic assembly work, and gradually led to my current role as a product manager. Over the past six years, I’ve gained valuable experience in various positions within the company.

My first role was as a laser technician, assembling optomechanical components. This taught me essential technical skills, gave me insight into the production process, and helped me understand laser components, their functions, and the responsibilities of my colleagues. This foundational experience set the stage for my future career.

Next, I moved to a service technician position, where the work became much more dynamic. I deepened my understanding of laser operating principles, tested and repaired lasers, coordinated shipments, and handled documentation. I also helped search for and prepare components. It was at this point that I realized laboratory work wasn’t for me.

My third position was as a market development engineer, which proved to be a turning point in my career. I joined the newly formed Market Development team in the Scientific Laser Systems Department, focusing on spectroscopic system applications. Here, I applied the knowledge I gained during my studies, prepared conference presentations, communicated with clients, and analyzed product applications. This role helped me realize the value of working with scientific innovations. Eventually, I became a product manager, and now I lead the development and improvement of spectroscopic systems.

Tell us more about your work as a product manager. What projects do you typically work on?

Although the role of a product manager sounds like working directly with products, it’s actually a lot of communication with the teams that manufacture, design, and improve them. I work with spectroscopic systems designed for scientists. These systems are widely used by physicists studying semiconductors and quantum nanostructures, chemists exploring the interaction of light with synthesized molecules, and biologists investigating rapid chemical reactions in living cells. Ultra-fast spectroscopy helps us understand how plants, algae, and bacteria use light from carbon dioxide and water to synthesize sugar, and how photons affect our retinal cells.

My job includes market research, analyzing customer needs, planning product development, handling marketing campaigns, and much more. Every day brings new challenges, so there’s no routine. Some days I jump from one technical meeting to another, while other days I collaborate with colleagues to plan marketing and communication strategies. I thrive in this dynamic environment, which helps me stay motivated and avoid routine.

In 2.5 years, I attended 25 conferences and trade shows, from Lithuania to Australia, which taught me to manage my time efficiently. Initially challenging, I eventually adapted and learned how to make the most of each situation.

Have there been moments when you were proud to represent Light Conversion? Can you share a memorable story?

One of the most memorable experiences was during the company anniversary when we organized a cake campaign to support Ukraine. Along with my colleagues, we baked 155 cakes, and the proceeds were donated to the Blue/Yellow organization. It was a meaningful and unifying experience.

At conferences, it’s always rewarding to hear clients praise our company and products. One customer recalled how a service engineer installed a system for them 20 years ago and sent their greetings. This customer said they always recommend our products to friends. Stories like these are common, and they make me grateful to work with such a talented team.

What advice would you give to those just starting their careers?

For those who don’t have laser physics knowledge but want to contribute to laser production, don’t be afraid. We provide training for each new employee, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills for their specific role. Plus, in Lithuania, there are many companies in the laser industry – from optics and mechanics manufacturers to companies that produce lasers and laser systems. There are plenty of career opportunities.

Why do you think a career in the laser industry is worth pursuing?

Uniqueness and value. Among physicists, saying you work in the laser industry, especially at Light Conversion, no longer surprises anyone, but it still makes you feel proud. Here, you find meaning in your work – it’s not just everyday consumer goods. The lasers and systems we create are used in both industry and science. In industry, lasers are used in everything from precision machining tools to electronics components and medical instruments, as well as laser vision correction. In scientific labs, our systems contribute to the development of future technologies. Our products are found in 96 out of the world’s top 100 universities. Working in such an innovative and rapidly growing field opens up numerous career opportunities. You can specialize in different areas, grow professionally, and set higher goals.

How would you describe Light Conversion’s culture, your colleagues, and the work environment?

Every day, I’m surrounded by innovative, proactive, responsible, helpful, and friendly colleagues. Inside jokes are a part of our daily routine. Of course, there are challenges and disagreements, but at the end of the day, we all work towards shared goals. It’s a place where you can not only work but also grow as a strong professional and individual.