Mike Mandina

Mike Mandina is a master optician and entrepreneur. After starting two manufacturing businesses providing precision optics to photonics companies, Mike joined Optimax in 1991.

He serves the local community and global industry through his guidance in organizations like the Rochester Regional Photonics Cluster, the NYS Finger Lakes Workforce Investment Board and the High Tech of Rochester’s Manufacturers Extension Partnership. Mike was instrumental in the development of FAME (Finger Lakes Advanced Manufacturer’s Enterprise), a non-profit organization committed to workforce development, where he currently serves as chairperson. He is also involved in steering the MCC Optics Department Advisory Board Hiring Committee, the WIRED: Finger Lakes Partnership Governing Board and the Rochester Regional Economic Council’s Photonics Work Group.

In addition, Mike has received numerous honors and awards over the years for his leadership and industry success, including finalist for Rochester’s Small business person of the year, NYS Business Hall of Fame inductee, Rochester Regional Photonics Cluster Entrepreneurship award and the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) New York State Small Business Person of the Year award.

He holds associate degrees in optical engineering technology and engineering science from Monroe Community College and a bachelor’s degree in applied physics from Empire State College, as well as an Executive MBA from the Rochester Institute of Technology.