Grady McMaster is building a clear path into one of today’s most critical industries. As a NOVA Pre-Apprentice ET Career Scholar, he’s gaining hands-on experience, industry exposure, and valuable connections that are shaping his future in semiconductor manufacturing. With a focus on continuous learning and long-term goals in electrical and computer engineering, Grady is turning opportunity into a launchpad for a career in advanced technology.
Tell us a little about yourself.My name is Grady McMaster, and I’m currently a student in NOVA’s Engineering Technology and Data Center Operations program. I’m particularly interested in the semiconductor manufacturing industry and hope to build a career in that field. Long term, I would also like to continue my education and pursue a degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering.
Why did you come to NOVA for your education?
I chose NOVA largely because of the Engineering Technology Career Scholars (ETCS) program. One of the biggest advantages of the program is that it allows students to gain valuable technical skills and enter the workforce relatively quickly. In about a year, you can earn certifications and experience that open doors to strong career opportunities. NOVA also provides a very high-quality education at a cost that is much more affordable than many other options, which made it possible for me to pursue this path without taking on significant debt.
Tell us about your experience in the ET Career Scholars program and how it has benefitted you.
The ET Career Scholars program has been extremely valuable for both me and my peers. One of the most unique aspects of the program is the cohort structure. We go through the program together as a group, which creates a strong sense of teamwork and accountability. Everyone supports each other, shares knowledge, and helps one another stay on track.
Beyond the classroom, the program also provides direct connections to companies in industries like semiconductor manufacturing and data center operations. That combination of technical training, career preparation, and networking opportunities makes it much easier to transition from school into a real career.
Why is semiconductor manufacturing important and why should people pursue it as a career?
Semiconductor manufacturing is incredibly important because semiconductor chips power nearly every piece of modern technology. From phones and computers to cars, medical equipment, and large-scale data centers, these chips are essential to how the world functions today.
The manufacturing process behind them is extremely intricate and requires precision, advanced technology, and skilled technicians and engineers. That complexity makes the work challenging but also very rewarding. It’s a field where you are constantly learning, and it plays a critical role in shaping the future of technology.
What is it like working together with many other students in a cohort who are doing the same thing you are?
Working with my cohort has been one of the best parts of the program. Everyone is motivated and working toward the same goals, which creates a very supportive environment. We help each other study, prepare for exams, and stay on top of assignments.
For example, earlier today I had a final exam, and many members of my cohort showed up hours early so we could review material and study together. Having that level of support and teamwork makes a big difference and helps everyone succeed.
While still in ET Career Scholars, you interviewed for an internship at Micron. How did that come about, how was your interview experience, and what was the outcome?
Micron is one of the major industry partners connected to the ET Career Scholars program. Earlier in the year, our cohort had the opportunity to tour Micron’s semiconductor manufacturing facility in Manassas, and seeing the scale and complexity of their operations made me very interested in applying for their internship program.
When the opportunity came up, I applied and was invited to interview. The interview process was welcoming and encouraging, and it gave me the chance to learn more about the different departments and the type of work being done there. It was a great experience and gave me valuable insight into how semiconductor manufacturing facilities operate.
As an ET Career Scholar at NOVA, how do you balance your time and energy between work and education?
At the moment I do not have another job, although many students in the program do balance both work and school. One advantage of the ET Career Scholars program is the schedule. Most students only have classes about three days per week, which leaves additional time for internships, work, or other commitments.
Outside of school, I also serve as an officer for SkillsUSA at NOVA and try to stay involved in campus activities. I also make sure to spend time with friends and family, which helps maintain a good balance between school and personal life.
Tell us about the important interpersonal skills you’ve learned in ET Career Scholars and how they will help you in your Micron internship and future career.
One of the biggest skills I’ve developed through the program is communication, especially when it comes to networking and collaborating with others. Working closely with my cohort has helped me become more comfortable sharing ideas, asking questions, and working as part of a team.
Those interpersonal skills are just as important as technical skills in many technology roles. Being able to communicate clearly and work well with colleagues will be very valuable during my internship and throughout my career.
What’s the easiest and hardest thing about your career path?
One of the easiest aspects of my career path is the accessibility of getting started. Anyone who attends NOVA has the opportunity to take these classes and earn the same certifications without spending a large amount of money.
The hardest part is the need for constant learning. Technology evolves very quickly, and the tech industry can change almost overnight. Staying up to date with new technologies, systems, and processes requires continuous learning and a strong commitment to improving your skills.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I hope to be working full-time in the semiconductor manufacturing industry while continuing to expand my technical knowledge and experience. I would also like to continue my education and move toward earning a degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering.
What is your advice to high school students who are interested but undecided about pursuing ET Career Scholars?
My advice would be to go for it. I was undecided for a while myself, but looking back, the program has opened opportunities that I likely would not have had otherwise. In about a year, you can gain valuable technical skills and potentially step into a strong career path.
If you are willing to work hard and take the program seriously, it can be an incredible opportunity.
What’s your advice for NOVA students who are taking the next step into an internship or a tech career?
Try to learn as much as possible from every internship or opportunity you receive. One of the biggest mistakes someone can make is not fully taking advantage of the experience.
Ask questions, observe how experienced technicians and engineers approach their work, and try to understand their thought processes. The more you absorb during that time, the more valuable the experience will be for your future career.
In what other ways has NOVA equipped you for the future?
NOVA has helped prepare me with both the technical and professional skills needed to succeed in the technology industry. It has allowed me to refine my technical abilities while also helping me develop communication, teamwork, and networking skills.
The opportunities and connections I’ve gained here have helped me reach places I did not initially imagine were possible.
What do you like to do in your spare time (if you have any)?
In my spare time I enjoy playing video games, spending time with friends, and working on technology-related projects. I also enjoy learning about new technologies and spending time with my dogs and my cat.
Other thoughts? Anything important we missed with the other questions?
The semiconductor and technology industries are continuing to grow rapidly and need more technicians and engineers entering the field. For anyone considering this career path, programs like ET Career Scholars provide a great starting point and can open many doors.