During a recent "Nuclear 101" session hosted by the Virginia Nuclear Energy Consortium and the Nuclear Innovation Alliance, leaders from across the nuclear sector gathered to discuss the current landscape and future potential of nuclear energy in the Commonwealth of Virginia. One panel featured representatives from BWX Technologies, Framatome, the Virginia Innovative Nuclear Hub (VIN Hub), and Appalachian Power Company—all key players with deep roots in the Lynchburg Region and beyond.

While the session focused on nuclear energy education and innovation, the conversation naturally turned to one of the most pressing topics in the field: workforce development. As is often the case in these discussions, it quickly became clear that there is a critical need to broaden public understanding of what careers in nuclear energy entail.

The nuclear industry is often thought of in narrow terms; most people immediately picture nuclear engineers in lab coats. But as the panel emphasized, the sector’s workforce needs extend far beyond that image. There is strong demand for skilled technicians, quality control specialists, and professionals in cross-industry roles like marketing, communications, and finance. In fact, every aspect of the nuclear industry, from design and manufacturing to regulatory affairs and community relations, requires diverse expertise and not all jobs require a 4-year college degree.

This brings up an important question: why does society continue to hold such a limited view of what a career in the nuclear industry looks like? April Wade, Executive Director of the Virginia Nuclear Energy Consortium, offered some thoughtful insight. She noted that the nuclear community can do a better job of involving and engaging the broader public. While she was speaking in the context of community support, her point also applies to workforce awareness. When the community isn’t involved, opportunities go unseen—and career pathways remain unexplored.

One panelist highlighted the need to make nuclear careers more appealing to younger generations. He shared his experiences speaking with college students, observing that if we want careers in the nuclear industry to be considered a realistic option—and even exciting, it needs to be seen as "cool." He used SpaceX as an example of how branding and public engagement can dramatically shift perceptions.

This idea struck a chord with me, especially as we prepare for the upcoming Educator Workforce Academy. I took the opportunity to ask the panel what educators need to know about nuclear technology in order to better guide students. The answer was clear: we need to demystify nuclear careers and shift outdated perceptions. Teachers need the tools and knowledge to confidently share these opportunities with their students.

That’s why we’re thrilled to be partnering with the American Nuclear Society to host a teacher workshop during the Academy on July 24th. This session will help educators understand the scope of the industry and the incredible range of careers it offers.

The future is bright for talent in the Lynchburg Region—and our regional nuclear industry is playing a big part in lighting the way.