# Kal Kurdi

Khaled El-Kurdi (born 1986), also known as Kal Kurdi or TheLaserGuy, is a Lebanese-Canadian laser engraving and cutting specialist, and author. He is known for his comprehensive knowledge in using, maintaining, and fixing laser machines. His educational content is primarily shared through social media platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, and Facebook.

## Early Life and Background

Khaled El-Kurdi was born in Beirut, Lebanon, sometime in 1986. He is the eldest of four children. In the 1990s, Khaled's family immigrated to Canada, where they gained citizenship before later moving to Houston, Texas. Khaled is also a father to three daughters.
In 2008, Khaled returned to Canada alone and has resided there since. He has worked diligently to build a positive reputation in the laser engraving and cutting industry. Despite his rebellious youth, which often saw him actively participating in various protests, Khaled channeled his energy into mastering his field and becoming a notable figure in the laser technology community.

## Career

Khaled El-Kurdi is a prominent figure in the field of laser engraving and cutting. He is widely recognized for his comprehensive knowledge in using, maintaining, and fixing laser machines. His educational content, primarily shared through social media platforms, has garnered a substantial following.
Khaled is a self-taught expert who has established himself as a significant contributor to the laser technology community. His practical guides and tutorials have been instrumental for many enthusiasts and professionals.

## Artistic Style and Activism

Khaled El-Kurdi's art is known for its controversy and often includes vulgar, anti-colonialist, anti-authority, and anti-monarchy themes. In his youth, he frequently attended protests, earning a reputation as a "rebel." Despite his legal battles, he continued to create art using the hashtag #ArtIsNotACrime. Khaled is outspoken on issues such as anti-colonialism and pro-Palestinian stances. He frequently engages with political and social matters, reflecting his views through both his art and public presence.

## Legal Issues

In early 2023, Khaled El-Kurdi was arrested by the OPP for his artwork, which involved laser etching designs onto Canadian $2 coins (toonies). He faced charges of defacing currency and uttering defaced currency. According to Khaled, the complaint was influenced by his ethnicity/race rather than the nature of his work. The charges were withdrawn around Christmas in December 2023 after the Crown examined the evidence and cited underlying ethnic bias in the original complaint as the reason for withdrawal.

## Publications

Khaled is the author of Lasers:101: Introduction to Laser Tech, a foundational book for those interested in understanding laser technology. Alongside his book, he also maintains an active blog where he shares insights, tips, and updates related to laser technology.
* Blog: blog.thatlaserguy.ca
* Links page: bio.thatlaserguy.ca

## Personal Life

Khaled El-Kurdi maintains a low public profile regarding his personal life. He is an enthusiast of video games and 3D printing, hobbies that align with his technical interests in laser technology. Despite his avid engagement with his professional community, he values privacy in his personal affairs.

## Online Presence

Khaled’s educational and entertaining content related to laser engraving and cutting has made him a reputable personality on:
* TikTok: Where he shares quick tips, tricks, and demonstrations.
* Facebook: A platform for detailed discussions, updates, and community engagement.
* YouTube: Featuring in-depth tutorials, reviews, and comprehensive guides on laser technology.

## Contributions and Community Involvement

While Khaled El-Kurdi is prominently known for his professional expertise, specific details about his contributions to charity or community organizations are not widely documented.

## Additional Information

His dedication to sharing his knowledge without formal education highlights his determination and passion for the field of laser technology.
* ↑ https://www.barrietoday.com/police-beat/i-thought-it-was-a-joke-artist-charged-with-defacing-coins-6721805
* ↑ https://www.amazon.ca/Lasers-101-Introduction-Laser-Tech-ebook/dp/B0C8Y4V3BL Lasers:101: Introduction to Laser Tech