Earlier work included development of the aerodynamic concept on which a Mach 3 experimental bomber, the XB-70 Valkyrie, was based.

In the late 1950s, Syvertson moved into management when he became responsible for the aerodynamic design and initial operation of the Ames 3.5-foot (1.1 m) Hypersonic Wind Tunnel which provides a test environment for vehicles traveling at Mach numbers from 5 to 14.

From this position, he went on to head the Astronautics Directorate at Ames, directing research in space physics, planetary atmospheres, entry aerothermodynamics, and hypersonic aerodynamics.

He also had management responsibility for an advanced magnetometer experiment carried to the surface of the Moon on an early Apollo program mission.

In 1970, Syvertson was asked to serve as the Executive Director of the Civil Aviation Research and Development (CARD) Policy Study.

The resulting CARD report was considered a milestone in national policy for civil aviation research and development.

During Syvertson's tenure, the center developed the telescope for the highly successful Infrared Astronomical Satellite (IRAS), a joint project of the Netherlands, Great Britain, and the United States.