NiiCA News Release
Scholarship, established to honor the legacy of a dedicated apprentice, supports Registered Apprentices (RAs) as they pursue careers in semiconductor and advanced manufacturing
HANOVER, Md., Feb. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement™ (NIICA) has selected five outstanding RAs as recipients of the Maddison Spaulding Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship, in its first year, celebrates the memory and legacy of Maddison Spaulding, a trailblazing RA at Applied Materials in NIICA’s Growing Apprenticeships in Nanotechnology and Semiconductors (GAINS) program.
Spaulding was a passionate advocate for skill-based learning and career advancement through apprenticeships. Spaulding’s legacy lives on through this scholarship, which provides financial assistance to apprentices to support them as they pursue careers in these critical industries.
This year’s scholarship recipients are:
- Quazi Ummehany – NY CREATES
- Allison Horst – Moog
- Ashley Salgado – Micron
- Heather Houchin – Micron
- Makayla Lasswell – Micron
Each of these apprentices has demonstrated resilience, a commitment to professional growth, and a passion for advancing in semiconductor and advanced manufacturing. From balancing rigorous technical training with mentorship and leadership, to overcoming personal challenges in pursuit of a high-value career, these recipients exemplify the dedication and determination that defined Spaulding’s journey.
“Quazi Ummehany, who works as a Cleanroom Operator at the New York Center for Research, Economic Advancement, Technology, Engineering, and Science (NY CREATES), has a clear passion for innovation and is committed to skills development, making her a true asset to NY CREATES as we seek to drive the R&D and develop the workforce that will enable success of the U.S. semiconductor industry. This scholarship is a testament to her dedication and potential, and we are proud to support her as she continues to break new ground,” said NY CREATES Vice President for Education and Workforce Development Dr. Robert Geer.