TCAT is highlighting how its training programs support Tennessee’s growing nuclear energy industry by preparing students for in-demand careers.
TCAT McMinnville Extension Director Daniel Bratcher said TCAT connects students to the nuclear energy industry through careers like construction, machine operators, truck driving, and welding. Bratcher said most students overlook these careers as part of the nuclear energy industry.
“When you hear the name nuclear, right off, you automatically think of a different aspect,” Bratcher said. “But they are very critical, especially with truck driving and material handling, things like that. Some of those things are overlooked, but they are very in-depth and play very important roles in the nuclear industry.”
Bratcher said all of TCAT’s programs focus on meeting workforce needs in Tennessee. Bratcher said TCAT has designed programs to help meet the big workforce demand in the nuclear energy industry.
“Outside of the nuclear industry, a lot of these companies are still hiring for truck drivers, welders, but the nuclear industry is just adding to that as well,” Brathcer said. “Since 2019, the state has landed 11 different industry projects. Creating 2,200 new jobs with a capital investment of over $6.96 million. So this is just an equal industry in Tennessee, and so it’s a top workforce priority for the Tennessee Board of Regents.”
Bratcher said TCAT’s programs work with nuclear energy industry leaders to better prepare students for the workforce.
“A lot of our programs, we have advisory committees where even like TVA can come in and say, hey, these are some of the things we are seeing as we transition towards the nuclear energy industry. And they can help us train and give us aspects on what they are seeing that is new in the industry that can help us better train on new aspects coming in from the nuclear roles.”
Bratcher said TCAT is using social media to campaign to tell students in the Upper Cumberland that they do not have to leave the region to find career paths to the nuclear energy industry. Bratcher said TCAT provides a more affordable and faster path to the industry.