In this study, a surface pre-treatment method for applying a metallic coating on a fiber reinforced plastic substrate is presented. Laser structuring with a pulsed laser source is used to create structures on carbon fiber reinforced epoxy. A nickel-chromium coating is applied by atmospheric plasma spraying. A combination of matrix removal and trench structure exceeds industrial requirements. Using pull-off tests, an average adhesive strength of at least 20.3±2.7 MPa was achieved between the coating and the substrate before composite fracture was observed.