From Apprentice to Advanced Manufacturing Leader: Chris Spicer’s Continued Growth at LSI Solutions

By National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement (NIICA), MACNY, The Manufacturers Association, and Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association (RTMA)

For Chris Spicer, building a career in advanced manufacturing did not follow a traditional path. What began as a hands-on role in the workforce has evolved into a highly technical position at the center of innovation.

Today, Spicer serves as a Senior Engineering Machinist at LSI Solutions in Victor, New York, where he supports the development of medical devices and plays a key role in advancing production capabilities.

His apprenticeship is supported through the Rochester Technology and Manufacturing Association (RTMA), in coordination with broader statewide efforts led by MACNY, The Manufacturers Association, to expand and strengthen Registered Apprenticeship (RA) programs across New York State. Through this model, employers like LSI Solutions are able to provide structured, high-quality training that aligns with both workforce needs and industry demands.

As part of National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) 2026, NIICA is highlighting stories like Spicer’s to show how RA creates opportunities for career growth while helping critical industries build the skilled workforce they need.

We first shared Spicer’s story in 2025, when he transitioned into LSI Solutions’ first Tool Maker Apprentice. Since then, his role has expanded significantly. Read his original profile.

That growth is reflected in both his title and his responsibilities.

Spicer has since been promoted to Senior Engineering Machinist and has taken on a leading role in building and managing a new shop focused on rapid prototyping, automation, packaging, and engineering support. His work now sits at the intersection of design and production, where precision and collaboration are critical.

He works closely with LSI engineers to evaluate design feasibility, refine production processes, and help establish realistic timelines for manufacturing.

The work is complex, but it is also where he thrives.

Spicer’s enthusiasm for his role is reflected in his contributions to an automation-focused team that continuously looks for ways to streamline processes and improve production outcomes, helping bring new medical technologies from concept to reality.

His apprenticeship has played a central role in that progression.

Now nearing completion of his related instruction, Spicer is finishing his final course, Vertical Machine Tool Programming, at Monroe Community College. He has already exceeded the required on-the-job training hours, positioning him for the next step in his career.

RTMA expects to complete his application for Journey Worker status by the end of May, marking a significant milestone not only for Spicer, but for LSI Solutions and the regional workforce.

Spicer’s journey reflects the value of RA as a pathway that allows individuals to build technical expertise while contributing meaningfully to their organizations. What began as a search for direction has become a career defined by growth, specialization, and continuous learning.

Employers looking to build and sustain a highly skilled workforce can connect with NIICA to explore how RA can support long-term talent development across critical industries.