About Local Laser Supply Canada
We're not like other laser supply companies- we are makers first
The origin of Local Laser Supply Canada is a tale of passion and opportunity. Shannon Hoover never expected to sell laser cutter machines, but as co-owner of Fuse33 Makerspace in Calgary, Alberta, his enthusiasm for lasers was so contagious, that many of members of the shared community workshop became inspired to own lasers themselves.
What is a Makerspace?
A makerspace is a community workshop offering membership-based access to a variety of specialized tools that might be too costly or impractical for home setups.
Makerspaces caters to a wide range of creators, from artists and small business owners to hobbyists and tradespeople. Various groups use the space for projects, including public furniture, art installations, and product development by small business owners.
Over the past 10 years, Shannon spent countless hours using and teaching others how to use laser equipment at the Fuse33, so he's seen it all!
Lasers Built for Makers
Shannon’s connection with Thunder Laser began in 2018 when he met Ken from Thunder Laser during a trip to China. While participating in a fashion show with Make Fashion through his lighting company, NLiten, Shannon discovered how Thunder Laser’s machines used off the shelf parts, and were designed in such a way that allowed parts to be easily swapped making them easy to use and maintain—perfect for creators of all levels. His intrigue led to a tour of their factory, and later in 2019, Thunder Laser invited him to use their equipment at a Make Fashion event, helping bring wearable art and sculpture to life.
Shannon recalls his experience:
“I had used several lasers before, but Thunder Laser stood out with its safety features, ease of setup, and user-friendliness. In a shared setting, it felt like a safer choice, and the learning curve was smoother, which allowed me to train others more quickly.”
The Unexpected Start of Thunder Laser Canada
Thunder Laser Canada emerged amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Social restrictions meant makers had more free time, and many wanted to start businesses or preferred personal equipment to shared tools. Shannon recalls,
“Some Fuse33 members expressed interest in owning a laser machine, so I reached out to Thunder Laser. After facilitating a few sales, they invited me to help with broader distribution across Canada.”
Thunder Laser Canada has since expanded, bringing together a dedicated team of laser enthusiasts passionate about helping Canadians kickstart their creative or small business ventures.
How Selling Laser Cutters led to Local Laser Supply Canada
As Canadians, we know access to some laser supplies and materials can be challenges. Many supply companies are based in the US, which means long wait times, and tariffs- UGH! We've spent the past several years talking to our Thunder customers to figure out what supplies are difficult to find, are which suppliers they trust the most and love the best.
Local Laser Supply Canada is ready to support your journey into laser cutting.
Meet the Team
Shannon Hoover: As the co-owner of both Fuse33 Makerspace, Local Laser Supply and Thunder Laser Canada, Shannon has helped foster the maker community in Calgary and beyond for 10 year. His role centers on sales and customer relations, connecting creators with the ideal laser equipment and materials to fuel their businesses and their passions.
Zee Kesler: A maker educator and former social impact project manager, Zee has been involved in the maker community since it first arrived in Canada. Zee manages the online shop and marketing and develops educational resources for the community.