Honoring a Trailblazer:
The 2026 Maddison Spaulding Memorial Scholarship
In honor of Maddison’s pioneering
spirit, this scholarship supports women pursuing careers in semiconductor and advanced manufacturing
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At NIICA, we’re honored to carry forward the legacy of Maddison Spaulding—a dedicated apprentice whose passion for her work and for helping others continues to inspire everyone who hears her story.
Maddison was the first female apprentice in NIICA’s Growing Apprenticeships in Nanotechnology and Semiconductors (GAINS) program with Applied Materials in Texas.
Her determination, curiosity, and belief in the value of hands-on learning set her apart and left a lasting impact on her peers. She believed deeply in the power of Registered Apprenticeships (RAs) to create opportunity—for people who want to learn, grow, and build meaningful careers in industries that shape our future.
The Maddison Spaulding Memorial Scholarship ensures her life and legacy continue to guide and uplift others. Through this program, Maddison’s voice still resonates—empowering more women to pursue their aspirations and follow the path she championed.
About the Scholarship
The Maddison Spaulding Memorial Scholarship offers up to five one-time awards of $1,000 each to help female apprentices offset expenses related to participating in NIICA-supported Registered Apprenticeship programs in semiconductor, advanced manufacturing, nanotechnology, and related technology sectors.
These scholarships help reduce barriers such as transportation, childcare, and tools—real-world challenges that can prevent individuals from fully accessing apprenticeship opportunities.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Maddison Spaulding Memorial Scholarship, applicants must:
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Identify as female
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Be accepted or enrolled in a NIICA-supported Registered Apprenticeship program in semiconductor, advanced manufacturing, nanotechnology, or a related sector
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Demonstrate a commitment to a long-term career in these industries
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Be nominated by a supervisor, mentor, or program representative at their apprenticeship company (nominations due January 1, 2026)
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Provide one letter of recommendation from the nominating supervisor or mentor
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Submit a personal statement outlining career goals and how the scholarship will help achieve them (applications due January 31, 2026)
Application Process
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Employer/Organization Nomination: Employers or program mentors nominate eligible apprentices by completing and submitting the nomination form by January 1, 2026.
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Apprentice Application: After being nominated, apprentices will be contacted by NIICA with instructions to complete their application, including a personal statement and supporting documents. All materials are due by January 31, 2026.
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Review & Notification: The NIICA Advisory Board will review all applications, and recipients will be notified by February 20, 2026.
Scholarship Disbursement: Scholarship funds are distributed directly to the recipients to help offset real-world expenses that support their participation in apprenticeship programs—such as transportation, childcare, or essential tools.
Nomination Form
"Maddison’s passion for her work and her unwavering support for those around her truly set her apart. She wasn’t just an exceptional apprentice; she was a role model who inspired everyone she worked with.
Through this scholarship, we’re honored to carry forward her legacy by empowering other women to follow their dreams in semiconductor manufacturing."
-Clara Neri-Mejia, Program Manager, Global Training Institute, Applied Materials
