After a 22-year hiatus, Syntec Optics in Rochester, NY has reinstated its NYS Registered Apprenticeship Program through the Rochester Technology & Manufacturing Association’s Regional Sponsorship. Syntec added four apprentices, two CNC Machinists and two Precision Optics Manufacturing Technicians, as an effort to grow the next generation of skilled workers.
Unique to Syntec is that the company signed up twin brothers for the Precision Optics trade, with a concentration in single point diamond turning.
Evan Baldwin began his career at Syntec Optics in April 2021. He briefly attended the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) for Engineering, then transferred to Monroe Community College (MCC) for the Precision Machining program. After joining Syntec, Evan found his calling in diamond turning. While inding his true passion in the career of optics, he told his twin brother Jamie.
Through the support of the Rochester Technology & Manufacturing Association and its involvement in the GAINS grant, Syntec will receive invaluable support which will be crucial to building a sustainable program. Also, in a full circle moment, Syntec’s Chief Engineer in Diamond Turning, Ryan Kromm, was the last person to successfully complete the NYS Registered Apprenticeship Program at Syntec Optics 22 years ago and will oversee Evan and Jamie’s journey through the registered apprenticeship program. Ryan’s journey is a testament to the power of apprenticeships as Syntec is excited to reboot the program and take it to the next level.
Syntec also signed up two CNC Machinists, Steven Duong and Hai Tran, earlier this year, exhibiting the company’s commitment to upskilling through registered apprenticeship.
Publish Date: 03/02/2026