CLEVELAND and DALLAS, May 31, 2022 — Align Capital Partners (ACP), a growth-oriented private equity firm, has announced its strategic acquisition of StenTech, a leading North American provider of surface mount technology (SMT) stencils, pallets, tooling, and related components. This marks a significant investment for Align Capital Partners, underscoring their commitment to specialty manufacturing and expanding their portfolio within the electronics supply chain. StenTech, known for serving over 2,000 customers across North America, becomes the latest addition to ACP’s growing list of partner companies.
StenTech has established itself as a critical partner within the semiconductor and electronics manufacturing sectors since its inception in 1999. From a single location, the company has grown to become a North American leader, providing essential SMT stencils that are vital for customers’ manufacturing operations. These customized, high-impact products are mission-critical, and StenTech’s reputation is built on exceptional customer service, deep technical expertise, and industry-leading turnaround times for finished stencils.
“Finding the right investment partner who truly understands our market and is dedicated to maintaining our customer service standards within the SMT community was paramount,” stated StenTech founder Sibthain “Sip” Akbar. “Align Capital Partners demonstrated relevant experience in specialty manufacturing, a strong history of partnering with management teams during leadership transitions, and offered the resources to support our continued growth. They are the ideal partner for StenTech’s next phase.”
As part of this acquisition by Align Capital Partners, Sibthain Akbar will transition from his role as President to a position on the Board of Directors. Brent Nolan, StenTech’s current Vice President and a respected figure in the SMT industry, will succeed Mr. Akbar as President. Both Mr. Akbar and Mr. Nolan will retain shareholder positions within the company, ensuring continuity and a shared vision for future success under the guidance of Align Capital Partners.
“Over two decades, Sip has transformed StenTech from a concept into the premier stencil provider in North America,” commented Brent Nolan. “I am incredibly enthusiastic about leading StenTech into its next chapter of growth in partnership with Align Capital Partners. Their investment and expertise will be invaluable as we continue to expand our capabilities and market reach.”
This investment in StenTech represents Align Capital Partners’ first institutional capital infusion into the company since its founding in 1999. “ACP is excited to collaborate with Brent and the entire StenTech team to build upon their already strong market leadership,” said ACP Managing Partner Chris Jones. “As a growth-focused investor, Align Capital Partners is eager to invest in StenTech’s commercial and operational infrastructure. This partnership aims to further solidify StenTech’s position as the preferred supply chain partner for Tier 1 contract manufacturers and OEMs throughout North America.”
The Align Capital Partners team involved in this transaction included Operating Partner Dave Tiley, Vice President James Moss, and Associate Scott Robbins, working alongside Mr. Jones. StenTech received advisory services from Torkin Manes LLP, while Align Capital Partners was advised by Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP. This acquisition signals a promising future for StenTech and reinforces Align Capital Partners’ strategic approach to investing in high-growth specialty manufacturing businesses.
