Lasers and their applications have proliferated since Maiman developed the first laser in 1960. After the first use by the military in Vietnam, there has been significant research to ensure the safe use of lasers in combat. In addition, the biological effects of lasers has become a topic of intense study. There have been many applications of lasers in biology and medicine, though the mechanisms of effects in many cases are poorly understood. Nevertheless the development of new laser systems and new applications will continue in the future, and additional research will be required. 

Garrett obtained his BS in Mechanical Engineering, and MS and PhD in Electrical Engineering with a concentration in Biomedical Engineering, all from UT Austin. He served 20 years as a military officer in the USAF conducting and leading research, with assignments in Texas, Maryland, England, and the Pentagon. Following his military experience, he was a Technical Fellow with Northrup Grumman (TASC). He then returned to the USAF as a civil servant, where he led the Bioeffects Division of the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), and was responsible for directing all research on biological effects of radiofrequency radiation, lasers and chemicals. He also served as Acting Director, Human Effectiveness Directorate, AFRL, and Acting Director, Defense Laboratories Office, Office of the Secretary of Defense. He has served on advisory boards for UT San Antonio,, and for the Biomedical Engineering Department, UT Austin. He currently serves as Vice-Chairman for the San Antonio area of the Central Texas Section of IEEE. Garrett retired in January 2017, and resides in San Antonio with his wife, Hattie.