Nominations Open Through September 30
BRUSSELS, Belgium – July 31, 2025 – The European Chips Diversity Alliance (ECDA), a European Union-funded initiative coordinated by SEMI Europe, is pleased to announce that nominations are now open for the Spark Excellence Award. Part of ECDA’s wider engagement programme, the award recognises individuals who have made outstanding contributions to advancing inclusion within Europe’s microelectronics industry. Nominations are open through 30 September 2025.
In line with ECDA’s broader mission to foster a more inclusive semiconductor industry, the Spark Excellence Award celebrates professionals whose actions have led to visible, measurable progress in workplace inclusion.
“The Spark Excellence Award shines a light on those driving our industry forward and reminds us that building a stronger European chip ecosystem means including all voices,” said Cassandra Melvin, Senior Director, Business Development and Operations at SEMI Europe. “Recognition through the Spark Excellence Award helps drive meaningful change by celebrating those who cultivate talent and foster inclusion to advance our industry by addressing the long-term talent shortage.”
Nominees must be employed in the European microelectronics sector and 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 2025 recipient will be honoured during the CxO Summit keynote program at SEMICON Europa, 18–21 November in Munich. To foster continuity and build 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 DEI principles. Submit nominations by September 30.
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 3,000 member 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.
Contact Information:
Ana Isabel Billingslea / SEMI Europe
Phone: +49 15167987969
Email: [email protected]
Sherrie Gutierrez / SEMI Corporate
Phone: +1 831 889 3800
Email: [email protected]
