Applied Energetics (formerly Ionatron) is the only company that I know of using lasers to guide lighting. I used to work on their laser systems..
I'm pretty certain that some universities have tested similar concepts in the past, but I'm not sure how much of that is active right now.
I haven't worked directly with Spectra-Physics (just purchased by Newport, btw), but most laser companies that I have worked with will hire:
* Technicians, most of whom (nowadays) get 2-year associates degrees in optics/lasers/electronics. A number of universities and even community colleges...