• New Program Aims to Train Skilled Workers for Wyoming’s Emerging Nuclear Energy Sector

By Aubrey Hale
SVI Media

In a groundbreaking move for the state’s energy future, Western Wyoming Community College (Western) has announced the establishment of a Nuclear Technology Program, fueled by a $1.9 million grant from Governor Mark Gordon’s Wyoming Innovation Partnership (WIP). This innovative program will be the first of its kind in Wyoming, offering both a certificate and an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Nuclear Technology.

Wyoming, long celebrated as the “Energy State,” is stepping into a new era of energy production with the emergence of advanced nuclear power. Spearheading this transformation is the TerraPower Natrium facility, currently under construction in Kemmerer. Backed by Bill Gates and set to begin operations in the late 2020s, the Natrium plant represents a significant leap toward diversifying Wyoming’s energy portfolio with cleaner, sustainable energy solutions.

Western’s Nuclear Technology Program is designed to equip students with essential skills and hands-on experience in reactor operations, radiation protection, and safety protocols. With industry-standard facilities and a team of experienced faculty, students will gain the knowledge needed to thrive in Wyoming’s burgeoning nuclear workforce.

“The Nuclear Technology Program is a response to a critical workforce need in Wyoming and neighboring states,” said Dr. Kirk Young, President of Western. “With TerraPower’s advanced nuclear facility set to begin hiring in 2027, our program aligns perfectly with regional industry demands, creating a pipeline of skilled workers ready to support this vital sector.”

The timing couldn’t be better. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects around 500 job openings for nuclear technicians annually over the next decade, largely due to retirements and career transitions. As the TerraPower Natrium project ramps up, the demand for well-trained nuclear professionals in Wyoming is expected to soar.

Students enrolling in Western’s Nuclear Technology Program will receive a comprehensive education that blends academic rigor with technical training. The curriculum is directly aligned with the needs of the Natrium facility, addressing the urgent requirement for nuclear expertise across the region. “This program is not just about education; it’s about building a sustainable future for our energy sector,” Dr. Young added.

As Wyoming embarks on this exciting journey into the nuclear energy landscape, Western Wyoming Community College is poised to play a pivotal role. The college’s commitment to fostering talent and innovation will not only enhance local economic growth but also contribute to national clean energy goals.

With the support of state initiatives and industry partnerships, Western is ready to cultivate the next generation of nuclear technology professionals. As the state embraces this new era of energy production, the Nuclear Technology Program stands as a beacon of opportunity, preparing students for successful careers while helping Wyoming lead the charge in sustainable energy solutions.