Stories @ TCAT

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Kelli Chaney
TCAT Knoxville
workforce@tcatknoxville.edu

TCAT Knoxville: Training Tomorrow’s Nuclear Workforce Today

Knoxville, TN – July 21, 2025 – The Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Knoxville is preparing students for high-demand careers in the nuclear industry through its innovative training program, Introduction to Nuclear Science & Energy. This three-day bootcamp, held July 15–17, 2025, was made possible by the Governor’s Investment in Vocational Education (GIVE) Nuclear grant, awarded to TCAT Knoxville in October 2024.

The training program brought together TCAT Knoxville students from the HVAC, Industrial Maintenance/Mechatronics, and Welding programs to explore essential skills and knowledge for skilled craft positions in the nuclear industry. Participants were introduced to topics such as nuclear and radioactivity basics, the nuclear fuel cycle, medical isotopes, radiation safety, and the historical significance of Oak Ridge in the Atomic Age.

In collaboration with Roane State Community College, whose Nuclear Technology Program Director Dr. Joe Stainback led the instruction, the bootcamp also provided hands-on learning experiences in radiation measurement, safety protocols, and security considerations.

As part of TCAT Knoxville’s commitment to workforce development, the institution works closely with nuclear industry partners to ensure training programs align with the specific needs of employers. This collaboration ensures students graduate with the skills required for real-world applications, preparing them for roles such as radiation protection technicians, maintenance specialists, and welders in the nuclear field.

“The GIVE Nuclear grant has empowered TCAT Knoxville to meet the workforce demands of a vital and rapidly growing industry,” said TCAT Knoxville President Kelli Chaney. “By working with nuclear industry partners, we are able to customize training that equips our students with the exact skills employers are seeking. This program is a testament to our dedication to connecting students with high-demand, high-paying career opportunities.”

For more information about TCAT Knoxville, contact workforce@tcatknoxville.edu.

About Tennessee College of Applied Technology Knoxville

TCAT Knoxville is one of 24 Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology, governed by the Tennessee Board of Regents. The Colleges of Applied Technology are the state’s premier providers of career and technical training for Tennesseans to obtain the technical skills and professional training necessary for advancement in today’s job market.

Objectives of the programs offered by the Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology include:

• Giving students the opportunity to acquire marketable skills for entry into the labor market and upgrade the skills and knowledge of persons already employed for career advancement.
• Incorporating appropriate work attitudes and habits into the occupational program.
• Meeting the present and anticipated needs of business and industry.
• Meeting student needs by utilizing open-entry enrollment.
• Enabling students to begin on an individual level. Pace and progress will be measured against the curriculum's customary hours, and students will exit when specified competencies are met. Instructional methods are individualized and competency-based.