Josh has worked at Optimax Systems, located in Ontario, NY, for more than 20 years, starting as a college intern, and working in multiple roles in production control, supply chain management, and manufacturing leadership throughout his tenure at Optimax. 

Optimax, America’s largest precision optics manufacturer, has played a vital role in the progress of transformative technologies, from fiber-optic telecommunications and digital imaging to solid-state lighting and diagnostic medicine, and supports several key markets including semiconductor, aerospace & defense, and government research. 

As Director of Operations, Josh oversees a 24/7 manufacturing operation, focused on providing exceptional quality and productivity by applying lean manufacturing concepts and continuous improvement initiatives. In Josh’s time at Optimax, he’s been part of amazing growth, with employee headcount increasing from less than 100 to over 500 employees, manufacturing space quadrupling in size, and sales growth of 600%. This has been made possible through strategic hiring, capital investments, process improvements, and most importantly, the continual development and investment in our people – Optimax’s greatest asset. Josh’s motto, “great people, great culture,” reflects his strong appreciation for the team and work environment at Optimax. 

Josh holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Industrial & Systems Engineering from Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), and earned his MBA from the Simon Business School at the Universtity of Rochester, while working full-time at Optimax. Before joining Optimax, Josh worked at Walt Disney World as an industrial engineer and at General Mills in manufacturing operations. 

Josh is a member of the Optimax Board of Directors, and serves as the employee trustee on Optimax’s Perpetual Purpose Trust (PPT). The Optimax PPT is the majority shareholder of Optimax, ensuring Optimax independence, employee prosperity and profit sharing, and continual growth of the business. Additionally, Josh is a member of the Industrial Advisory Board for the Industrial Engineering department at RIT, and has served in multiple committee roles at Sodus Bay Heights Golf Club, where he’s been a member since high school.