The future of nuclear energy is growing right here in East Tennessee, and Roane County Schools is helping students prepare for the opportunities ahead.
Through collaboration with local industry leaders, higher education institutions, skilled trades organizations, and regional workforce initiatives, Roane County Schools is connecting students with the skills, training, and career pathways that can lead to high demand jobs in the nuclear energy industry.
Key partners include the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT), Roane State Community College, Education Matters, an initiative of The Roane Alliance and the Roane Chamber, and the Cooperative Agreement of Labor and Management (CALM). Programs such as the East Tennessee Apprenticeship Readiness Program (ETARP) provide additional pathways into skilled trades and apprenticeship opportunities. Together, these organizations help connect education with the growing workforce needs of East Tennessee while expanding opportunities for students to explore careers throughout their educational journey.
That preparation begins in elementary school, where STEM education introduces students to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These early learning experiences encourage curiosity, creativity, and problem solving while helping students build a foundation for future careers in science, engineering, and technology.
As students progress through middle and high school, they have opportunities to explore career pathways that align with the growing needs of the region's workforce. From engineering and advanced manufacturing to skilled trades, plant operations, and technical careers, students can discover multiple routes to success right here in East Tennessee.
“Fostering curiosity and hands on learning is essential to helping students explore nuclear careers and recognize the diverse opportunities available in the nuclear energy industry right here in their own backyard,” said Cindy Lockett, Career and Technical Education (CTE) Director for Roane County Schools. “Through strong partnerships with industry, businesses, schools, and families, we're expanding access to career awareness, educational resources, and pathways that prepare students to pursue high skill, high wage careers in the nuclear industry.”
Roane County Schools is providing students with opportunities to connect classroom learning to real world experiences. Recently, seventh and eighth grade students participated in a Nuclear Career Summit presented by the American Museum of Science and Energy and Orano USA. Representatives from Orano USA, BWXT, TRISO-X, and Roane State Community College shared information about the future of the nuclear industry and the career opportunities available throughout the region.
Students also have opportunities to explore careers in the skilled trades and learn about technical training and apprenticeship pathways available after high school. These experiences demonstrate the important role that skilled workers play in supporting the nuclear industry and show students that rewarding careers are available within their own communities.
“We are engaging every resource available to ensure our students have the opportunities and preparation they need to succeed,” said Roane County Schools Superintendent Russell Jenkins. “From kindergarten through graduation, our goal is to expose students to a wide range of opportunities, help them discover their interests and strengths, and prepare them for success beyond high school. We are extremely thankful for our community, industry, and educational partners who continue to invest in our students and help us connect classroom learning to real world experiences. There are tremendous opportunities emerging right here in Roane County and across East Tennessee, and we want our students to be among the best prepared in the state. Our goal is to equip them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to pursue their dreams while also giving them the opportunity to build successful careers, raise families, and contribute to the future of the communities they call home.”
Preparing students for the future requires a commitment that extends beyond the classroom. By building a foundation through elementary STEM education and expanding career exploration, technical training, and workforce opportunities as students progress through school, Roane County Schools is helping prepare the next generation of skilled workers and innovators who may one day shape the future of nuclear energy.
Roane County Schools is committed to preparing students not only for graduation, but also for meaningful careers and the opportunities of tomorrow.
Learning Today, Leading Tomorrow.