Simulation Leader Recognized For Workforce Development Work

Lindsey Spalding, director of Workforce Development at the National Center for Simulation (NCS) and director of the DoD STARBASE Central Florida, has received the 2026 Debbie L. Berry Legacy Award from the Central Florida Chapter of Women in Defense (WID-CFL) for her leadership, service and commitment to developing the next generation of STEM and defense professionals. Spalding is an active member of WID-CFL and serves as its director of STEM.

Spalding received the award at the Space Coast Chapter of WID's 2026 Salute to Speakers & Awards Evening on August 6, in Palm Bay, Florida.

The award honors the legacy of Debbie L. Berry, a longtime leader and advocate for women in the defense and STEM communities. It recognizes individuals who demonstrate a similar commitment to mentorship, professional development, community engagement and expanding opportunities for women.

Spalding's work brings together education, industry and community partners to strengthen career pathways and expand awareness of opportunities across the simulation and defense sectors. At NCS, she leads workforce development initiatives focused on strengthening the talent pipeline for Central Florida's modeling, simulation and training ecosystem. Through her work with WID, she creates opportunities for students and emerging professionals to explore STEM careers, while encouraging greater participation by women in the defense and national security workforce.

"Lindsey represents exactly what this award is intended to recognize," said George Cheros, president and CEO of NCS. "She brings an extraordinary combination of leadership, passion and service to everything she does. Her commitment to education, mentorship and expanding opportunities for women in our industry is making a lasting difference, and we are proud to see her receive this well-deserved honor, the Debbie L. Berry Legacy award."