For years, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) has supported Nuclear Science Week events and activities, including the recent visit from Augusta University (AU) students who toured the Savannah River Site (SRS). As students explored the 310-square-mile nuclear reservation and national environmental park, they learned about its missions and the SRS internship program. In a recent letter to the SRNS management team, Joseph Newton, PhD, AU Assistant Professor of Physics and Director of Nuclear Science, said, “All 17 chemistry and physics majors expressed an interest in nuclear science and an interest in a career at SRS. Needless to say, this strong group of engaged and dedicated students were incredibly excited to visit the Site and to learn about SRS careers and internship opportunities.”

“I believe we will see more high-quality students applying for SRNS internships than ever before, and it is interactive experiences like this that are the reason. This tour truly impacted the future career trajectory for some of these students. It is clear that investing in your future workforce is a priority.” Kim Mitchell, SRNS Education Outreach Lead, emphasized the winwin aspect of hosting the students for the tour. “For these students, success within their prospective careers at SRS fuels our success as a company,” she added.

According to Newton, all aspects of the extensive tour exceeded his expectations. He particularly appreciated the speakers. SRNS’ Rich Zaharek spoke to the students about engineering career at SRS, while Roy Windham discussed health physics and radiation protection occupations. Sylvia Zimmerman explained the advantages related to SRNS internship opportunities -- including how and when to apply. “These were three of the best and most relevant interactions that I have seen with a group of students in the 10 years I have been Director of Nuclear Science.”