From Apprenticeship to Advancement: Quazi Ummehany’s Continued Growth at NY Creates

By the National Institute for Industry and Career Advancement (NIICA) and NY Creates

Breaking into a high-tech field like semiconductor manufacturing often requires experience that can be difficult to get without already being in the industry.

When Quazi Ummehany began her Registered Apprenticeship (RA), she was able to build that experience from the ground up at NY Creates, a world-leading R&D innovation hub and commercialization facilitator based in Albany, NY. Today, she works as a Research Support Specialist at the Albany NanoTech Complex, supporting research and development in a highly technical cleanroom environment.

As part of NAW 2026, NIICA is highlighting stories like Ummehany’s to show how apprenticeship connects people to careers while helping critical industries build the workforce they need.

We first shared her story in 2025 as she began building her career through apprenticeship. Since then, her role has grown in both scope and complexity. Read her original profile.

That progress became clear in December 2025, when she completed the Industrial Maintenance Technician (IMT) Apprenticeship Program and was promoted to the research role.

“Since the last featured story, I successfully completed the Industrial Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship Program in December 2025. The next big milestone of my journey was being recognized by NY Creates and my peers, leading to a promotion,” said Ummehany. 

Today, her work takes place inside a cleanroom environment, where precision and consistency are essential. She works across multiple toolsets, has earned certifications, and now plays a role in supporting others as they learn.

“I train new operators, sharing technical expertise to help them resolve complex issues and track their progress. I collaborate effectively with a diverse team of technicians and engineers,” said Ummehany.

Her responsibilities have shifted from following established processes to understanding how those systems function and how to improve them.

“As a Cleanroom Operator, the role has shifted significantly over the past year from general operator to a more tech-driven position. It has shifted from simply operating the equipment following standard protocol to a deeper understanding of the tools, technology, and the semiconductor industry as a whole,” she said.

That shift has changed how she approaches the work.

“At this stage of my journey, the most exciting part is the transition from theory to tangible production. There is immense satisfaction in starting with raw ingredients or a digital blueprint and following it through the entire process until it becomes a high-precision component,” Ummehany said.

Through her apprenticeship, Ummehany has developed skills across electrical and electronics systems, mechanical systems, automation and controls, and troubleshooting. She has also continued her education at Hudson Valley Community College to strengthen her capabilities in her current role.

Along the way, support made a difference. The Maddison Spaulding Memorial Scholarship, awarded through NIICA, helped reduce financial pressure while reinforcing her confidence.

“The scholarship inspired me to move forward in my career and fueled my ambition. In addition to alleviating some financial pressure, this honor and recognition have given me the confidence to pursue a life-long career in this growing industry,” she said.

Over time, her interests became more focused.

“My apprenticeship has been crucial for my career development. It helped narrow my general interest to a specific focus on semiconductor research and manufacturing industries,” said Ummehany.

For Ummehany, apprenticeship offers a direct and practical path into a field that can otherwise feel difficult to access.

“Apprentices learn practical, hands-on skills directly applicable to their field while earning wages. This approach helped me build professional networks and gain experience without the burden of large educational debts,” she said.

Looking back, the impact extends beyond technical skills.

“This apprenticeship program has had a transformative impact, providing me with a structured, debt-free pathway to a secure career. Most importantly, it made me more confident and self-assured in my abilities,”said Ummehany. Now, she sees her apprenticeship as the foundation for continued growth. “My apprenticeship represents the solid foundation that validated my skills and paved the way for professional advancement.”

Employers looking to build a stronger, more sustainable workforce with workers like Quazi, can connect with NIICA to explore how RA can support your talent pipeline strategy across critical industries.