ECDA Opens 2026 Spark Excellence Award Nominations Spotlighting Inclusion in Europe’s Semiconductor Industry

BRUSSELS – August 5, 2026 – The European Chips Diversity Alliance (ECDA), a European Union-funded initiative coordinated by SEMI Europe, has opened nominations for the 2026 Spark Excellence Award, recognising individuals whose leadership and commitment to inclusion are helping strengthen Europe’s microelectronics workforce.  

As the semiconductor industry continues to grow, fostering workplaces where people can contribute, develop their skills and reach their full potential remains critical to innovation, resilience and long-term competitiveness. In line with ECDA’s broader mission to advance a more inclusive semiconductor industry, the Spark Excellence Award celebrates professionals whose actions have led to visible, measurable progress in workplace inclusion. 

“Diversity is more than a workforce characteristic, it is a strategic asset,” said Laith Altimime, President of SEMI Europe. “By bringing together different perspectives and experiences, organisations can improve performance, cultivate stronger leaders, drive innovation, and enhance competitiveness, creating the required conditions for sustainable growth and long-term success.”

The ECDA presented the inaugural Spark Excellence Award to Cassandra Melvin, Senior Director of Business Development and Operations at SEMI Europe 2025, in recognition of her leadership and commitment to fostering inclusion within the semiconductor industry.

“This recognition reflects the power of collaboration and inclusion in shaping the future of our industry,” said Melvin. “When we empower people and create space for growth, we drive innovation and build a stronger, more resilient semiconductor ecosystem for Europe and beyond.”

Eligible nominees are professionals employed within Europe’s microelectronics sector who demonstrate:

• A clear commitment to DEI values both within and beyond their organisation.
• Measurable and visible impact on inclusion, equity, and belonging in the workplace.
• The ability to inspire and mobilise others across the industry.
• Active contributions through mentorship, advocacy, or volunteering.

The ECDA will honor the 2026 recipient during SEMICON Europa, taking place 10-13 November in Munich. To build continuity and community, the recipient will also be invited to present the award to the following year’s winner.  

The ECDA Diversity in Chips Leadership Board will evaluate submissions based on impact, innovation, leadership, and alignment with ECDA’s mission to advance inclusion across the semiconductor ecosystem.

Nominations are open through September 30, 2026. To submit entries, visit Spark Excellence Award Nominations page.

About ECDA

The European Chips Diversity Alliance (ECDA) is a collaborative initiative comprising 11 partners across Europe. ECDA works to expand access to training and employment in microelectronics by removing barriers for underrepresented and underserved communities, helping unlock the full spectrum of Europe's talent pool. Learn more at diversityinchips.eu or follow us on LinkedIn or Instagram. 

About SEMI 

SEMI® is the global industry association connecting over 4,000 companies and 1.5 million professionals worldwide across the semiconductor and electronics design and manufacturing supply chain. We accelerate member collaboration on solutions to top industry challenges through Advocacy, Workforce Development, Sustainability, Supply Chain Management, and other programs. Our SEMICON® expositions and events, technology communities, standards, and market intelligence help advance our members’ business growth and innovations in design, devices, equipment, materials, services, and software, enabling smarter, faster, more secure electronics. Visit www.semi.org, contact a regional office, and connect with SEMI on LinkedIn and X to learn more.