MADISON – Steve and Alice Lessman, owners of Signalink Inc., have founded the “Women in Tech toBE FUND Scholarship.”

“Our scholarship for students is designed to provide financial assistance to female high-school students who want to pursue a degree in STEM-related fields. The scholarship aims . . . to play a role in reducing the gender disparity within the industry,” Steve and Alice Lessmann stated in the scholarship announcement.

Women in Tech or WIT // HSV is an Alabama-focused community platform aimed at educating, encouraging and empowering women to succeed in STEM career fields. The Invention to Innovation Center or I2C at the University of Alabama in Huntsville launched WIT.

The toBE FUND is committed to empowering women in STEM (‘to be’ whatever a woman aspires to be). In financial support, Signalink is cornerstone sponsor for toBE FUND scholarships and grants.

“When we began our journey with Signalink, our vision was to create a dynamic and innovative presence in the Huntsville community. We were driven by a passion for technology and a desire to make a tangible impact on the world,” the Lessmanns said.

However, the Lessmanns realized a drastic imbalance . . . “a lack of gender diversity that was hindering the industry’s potential for growth and progress.”

“Our sponsorship is driven by a profound conviction that women in the workplace represent a wealth of untapped potential. When women are provided with opportunities, guidance and resources, they can, and do, transform the tech landscape,” they said.

“We deeply appreciate the opportunity to support a shared belief in this vision. Together, we can work towards a future where women are not just participants in the technology industry, but leaders, innovators and champions of change,” the Lessmanns said.

To apply for the scholarship, students must satisfy eligibility requirements:

* Female high-school students – Seeking admission to accredited college for fall 2024 semester with major in technical or STEM field.

* GPA – Minimum 3.0 on 4.0 scale.

* Status – North Alabama resident with financial need.

* College entrance — Proof of acceptance/confirmation of enrollment (when available).

Judges for the toBE FUND scholarship will only consider original work that applicants produce independently. For example, essays must include proper citations but avoid AI tools.

Application deadline is March 15.

Successful recipients will receive a one-time scholarship of $5,000, disbursed to their chosen college upon confirmation of enrollment.

Signalink specializes in technical services, engineering and integration for government and commercial markets, including the Department of Defense, Armed Forces and Aerospace. (Signalink.us)

For more information, visit wit-hsv.org/funding.