Syndi started her education in alternative energy in high school, developing solar technologies that she competed with and won in international science fairs, paying for most of her college education.   Syndi was a youth presenter at the World Energy conference in 1989 where she was first introduced to the complexity of energy policy work.   In the early 90’s Syndi was on the youth committee for her state’s senator, giving her a glimpse into the mechanics of government.

In 1992 she completed a fellowship in Israel at the Weismann Institute of Science studying solar powered solid-state lasers.  At Utah State University, Syndi directed design teams completing evaluations for technology aids for individuals with disabilities. If existing technologies did not meet expressed needs, Syndi would design and manufacture the required items.  She completed her bachelors in mechanical engineering at Brigham Young University, where she did emissions remediation research in pulverized coal methane boosted combustion as an undergraduate.  During this time, Syndi worked in machine shops to support herself during college.  This practical experience not only gave Syndi hands on experience with engineering but also gave her real life experience as tradesman.

As a mechanical engineering graduate student at Colorado State University, Syndi researched and tested biofuels, published results, and trained with the soil and crop department.   She directed a small study for the Gates foundation during this time, and completed emissions research for multiple grants for the State of Colorado.  Syndi has presented her research at the World Congress for the Society of Automotive Engineers, the USDA research facility in Akron Colorado, the Governor’s Energy Office, Clean Energy Supercluster, the Western Society of Crop Science and John Deere.    Over a period of 3 years at CSU, Syndi has helped to manage over 30 mechanical engineering design teams, working with projects such as solar water purification, hydraulic hybrid vehicles, compressed air storage systems and John Deere tractor engine retrofits and emissions testing.  Syndi is currently a PhD student in systems engineering, focusing on biofuel production and use for Eastern Colorado farmers.  She recently served as the COO of a non-profit organization SOGHR, (Society of Global Health Researchers) which is spearheading oilseed processing for food and fuel on community-based levels for developing nations, especially Afghanistan.

Syndi also married her high school sweetheart, had 4 children and was a small business owner.  It was the love of service, instilled from her childhood that inspired Syndi to seek volunteer opportunities, which allowed her to have her children at her side.  When her children were very young, she drove for Meals on Wheels in Arizona.  This organization allowed her to serve in Spanish speaking areas, enabling her to use the Spanish skills she gained in high school and college.  As her children aged, Syndi has worked in cub scouts and as a mentor for young girls.  Her husband is a scoutmaster; helping young men advance through the ranks of scouts and learn what it means to live the scout law.