spent nearly 15 years at Florida Tech
BREVARD COUNTY • MELBOURNE, FLORIDA – Florida Tech mourns the passing of Edward Croy, a laser research technician and technology whisperer who spent nearly 15 years at Florida Tech helping to harness the university’s tools and machines for education and industry.
Mr. Croy, an active Florida Tech employee at the time of his passing, was hired in 2009 by Mary Helen McCay, Ph.D. He came aboard as a laser research technician and operator for the university’s Center for Hydrogen Research, which McCay directed.
He later worked in a similar capacity at the High Heat Flux Test Laboratory at Florida Tech’s Center for Advanced Coatings, which McCay also directed.
He was also the laser safety and laser technology consultant for Florida Tech.
Ilya Mingareev, Ph.D., co-director at the Center for Advanced Coatings, was Mr. Croy’s supervisor. He said Mr. Croy was an essential part of operations and the center’s success.
“His expertise and tireless efforts in maintaining laser lab systems and equipment were invaluable. His technical competency and meticulous attention to detail ensured that the research operations at the Center always ran smoothly and efficiently,” Mingareev said.
In the last few months, Mr. Croy transitioned from his longtime base at the Applied Research Lab to a new role as a technology specialist at the home of some of the university’s most sophisticated equipment, the Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Innovative Design. He played a vital role in the installation and operation of cutting-edge metal 3D-printing equipment at CAMID.
“Emotionally and personally, he was a great human being, an incredible individual,” said CAMID Director Juan C. Avendano. “Professionally he leaves a huge vacuum that will be hard to fill.”
Avendano was an undergraduate student at Florida Tech in 2010 when he first met Mr. Croy, who supervised him in the hydrogen research center.
“He was loved by everyone,” Avendano said. “Everyone who interacted with him had a good experience and a great story to tell. That was him as a person.”
Prior to joining Florida Tech, Mr. Croy worked 30 years in the laser industry as a senior technician; in production, engineering and field service; and on laser products ranging from military systems and industrial laser scanners to scientific research lasers and medical laser and optical systems.
His engineering capabilities spanned a broad range of disciplines, from lasers and laser optics, to mechanical, electronic/electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic and advanced sensors.
Mr.Croy attended Lively Vocational Technical School (now Lively Technical College) in Tallahassee in 1978-79, where he earned an associate degree in laser electro-optics.
“Ed will be remembered for his straight-forward personality, his unwavering sense of responsibility, and his infectious enthusiasm,” Mingareev said. “He was not only a dedicated colleague but also a cherished friend to me and many others.”
Funeral arrangements are pending. Details will be shared with the campus community when available.
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