Krell Technologies has been named Innovator of the Year at the 2025 New Jersey Manufacturing Awards, hosted by the New Jersey Manufacturing Extension Program (NJMEP) during its annual MADE in New Jersey Manufacturing Day celebration. 

NJMEP’s Manufacturing Day is the state’s largest manufacturing networking event, drawing nearly 1,000 industry leaders, educators, and policymakers each year. The event celebrates New Jersey’s thriving manufacturing community and recognizes companies driving innovation, workforce development, and economic growth across the state. 

Receiving the Innovator of the Year Award reflects KrellTech’s 30-year legacy of precision engineering, technological leadership, and collaboration within New Jersey’s manufacturing ecosystem. 

“This recognition honors not only our technical achievements, but also the partnerships and people who make them possible,” said Al Cheswick, President of Krell Technologies. “Innovation doesn’t happen in isolation. It grows from shared ideas, curiosity, and a drive to keep improving.” 

Driving Innovation in Photonics Manufacturing 

KrellTech’s foundation is built on engineering excellence and continuous improvement. The company’s NOVA™ system, designed and manufactured at its Neptune City facility, is a compact yet configurable polishing platform supporting a wide range of photonic components. Features such as micron-level positioning, programmable touchscreen control, and inline inspection exemplify the company’s dedication to performance and user experience. 

Recently, KrellTech introduced a new shaping capability for next-generation applications like photonic integrated circuits (PICs), a breakthrough technology enabling faster, smaller, and more efficient optical systems. Continuous software and hardware upgrades ensure customers benefit from the latest innovations without requiring new equipment, reinforcing KrellTech’s commitment to long-term value and sustainability. 

Partnerships with organizations such as the New Jersey Commission on Science, Innovation and Technology (CSIT) have supported research and development initiatives, including precision surface finishing for photonics components to improve signal transmission and efficiency. 

A Collaborative, People-Driven Philosophy 

KrellTech’s management philosophy centers on collaboration and transparency. Founder and President Al Cheswick maintains an open-door policy, encouraging input from every level of the company. Weekly team huddles, roadmap discussions, and employee-led design sessions foster an environment where innovation flows freely. 

Employees are also cross-trained across manufacturing, software, and customer support, helping them develop versatile skill sets and strengthen collaboration across departments. This hands-on approach ensures that every team member plays a direct role in advancing product quality and innovation. 

Building the Future Workforce 

Workforce development has become a defining part of KrellTech’s mission. Earlier this year, the company launched its Photonics Outreach Program, hosting students from Pleasantville High School for a hands-on introduction to photonics and manufacturing. The initiative, supported by NJMEP’s Rob Mazzuca, gave students firsthand experience with precision manufacturing technology and sparked interest in STEM careers. 

The event led to an invitation from a local university for the same students to visit its photonics lab, creating a bridge between education and industry. 

KrellTech also partners with Advancing Photonics Technologies, led by Christine Galib, to connect with universities, regional organizations, and emerging photonics professionals, further strengthening New Jersey’s growing STEM and manufacturing pipeline. 

Smart Supply Chain, Global Reach 

KrellTech maintains a lean, build-to-order manufacturing model, sourcing key components from trusted regional suppliers. This approach minimizes waste, ensures flexibility, and allows the company to respond rapidly to customer needs. 

Its systems are shipped worldwide through a network of international distributors who provide localized support and technical expertise, extending KrellTech’s reputation for precision and reliability across industries ranging from aerospace and telecommunications to biotech and defense. 

Advancing New Jersey Manufacturing 

KrellTech’s Innovator of the Year Award is more than a company milestone. It highlights the strength of New Jersey’s manufacturing community and the collaborative spirit that NJMEP’s Manufacturing Day fosters. 

Through continuous innovation, educational partnerships, and a dedication to local production, KrellTech continues to shape the future of photonics manufacturing right here in New Jersey.