University of Tennessee partners with Roane State and Tennessee College of Applied Technology to develop a nuclear workforce pipeline

More than 230 nuclear companies operate in Tennessee, including several that are new to the state and planning major construction projects. The Nuclear Energy Institute workforce report projects that 236,000 workers will be needed nationally to manufacture, construct and operate advanced reactors through 2035, and the demand for skilled workers in the nuclear industry will continue to grow. In response, a new partnership between the University of Tennessee, Knoxville; Roane State Community College; and the Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology is transforming how students prepare for and advance in the nuclear workforce.

The collaboration is creating seamless education pathways with hands-on training opportunities for students and professionals looking to transition or advance in nuclear fields — one of the state’s most critical industries.

“We looked closely at what the nuclear workforce needs at every level — identifying gaps and how Tennessee can strategically close them,” said Wes Hines, Chancellor’s Professor emeritus in UT’s Tickle College of Engineering. “As our use of nuclear energy expands, one of the biggest needs is skilled tradespeople who are trained to work effectively in nuclear environments. These roles require a specialized understanding to ensure safety, precision and long-term reliability.”

Two programs, multiple pathways 
At the center of the collaboration are pilot programs for 15- and  30-hour nuclear technology training sequences. Designed to meet students and professionals at different points in their careers, the programs combine academic rigor with practical training aligned with both industry and national security needs.

UT leaders provided input on the curriculum developed by Roane State, guidance on investing state resources in lab space and equipment, and faculty lecturers for both courses, bridging academic expertise and hands-on technical instruction.

The three-day 15-hour course introduces students to nuclear energy through lectures, demonstrations and hands-on experiments. The program is taught at TCAT campuses in four counties by Joseph Stainback IV, program director for nuclear technology at Roane State. The program partners with UT and the American Museum of Science and Energy, which provides a portable lab that simulates real-world experiences, allowing students to explore radiation, shielding, safety protocols, and the proper containment and transport of radioactive materials.

More than 100 TCAT students — many training as welders, machinists, and industrial maintenance technicians — have completed the program. While most participants are still finishing their primary  programs, 11 are already employed in the nuclear industry, with more expected to join the workforce in 2026.

“We’re teaching students to speak the language of nuclear,” Stainback said. “One of our graduates, a welder, was able to explain her nuclear training in an interview and land the job. That’s what success looks like.”

The weeklong 30-hour program is designed for working professionals wanting to transition into nuclear energy careers or advance within the industry. Taught by Stainback along with subject matter experts from Kairos Power and UT, the program is held at Roane State and combines campus lectures and lab work in Roane State’s Nuclear Technology Lab, a state-of-the-art facility equipped with radiation sources, detection instruments and a reactor simulator donated by UT.

The curriculum focuses on real-world applications of nuclear science, emphasizing safety, personal accountability and radiation measurement techniques. Twelve participants completed the pilot program, with another group planned to begin in the summer of 2026.

“The 30-hour nuclear program has completely transformed my knowledge of nuclear energy,” said participant Jaymon Bell. “The program brings in subject matter experts and industry leaders to create an immersive hands-on learning experience that deepens both our understanding of and our confidence in nuclear work. I hope more students interested in nuclear careers take advantage of this opportunity — it’s an incredible introduction to the field.”

Building careers through stackable credentials 
A defining feature of the initiative is its stackable credential system, which allows students and professionals to move seamlessly from technical training to college degrees and beyond. A TCAT machining student, for example, can add nuclear safety training through the 15-hour course, pursue Roane State’s associate’s degree in nuclear technology and later transfer credits toward a UT engineering or policy program.

“This is the first time we’re seeing conversations happening across every level of education — from associate up to Ph.D. — focused on how we can support each other in building Tennessee’s nuclear workforce,” said Christopher Ayers, president of TCAT Harriman. “This collaboration removes the silos that have traditionally separated different levels of education. It gives people the ability to start anywhere on the career ladder and keep moving up.”

A model for the nation
As Tennessee experiences a nuclear energy renaissance, these programs are positioning the state as a national model for workforce development in a vital industry. Next steps include expanding the 15-hour course to additional TCAT campuses and local high schools and scaling the 30-hour program to serve more professionals seeking career transitions.

“Our long-term goal is to make sure every student and professional understands there’s a future for them in nuclear,” said Teresa Duncan, vice president of workforce development at Roane State and the newly appointed Tennessee Board of Regents lead strategist for nuclear workforce development. “These are jobs that matter — jobs that will be here for decades.”

Together, UT, Roane State and TCAT are proving that effective workforce development happens when higher education and technical training align to meet the rapidly evolving needs of nuclear science and technology.

“Roane State and the TCAT system have been fabulous partners in this effort, and the foresight from Governor (Bill) Lee and state leadership to invest in these programs is remarkable,” Hines said. “Together we’re building the talent pipeline that will support not only East Tennessee’s growing nuclear industry but also the nation as a whole.”