To build a capable and representative workforce, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) has developed partnerships and agreements with regional post-secondary institutions.

More specifically, nine Memorandums of Understanding (MOU) agreements between SRNS and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are creating new job opportunities for traditionally underrepresented students and alumni.

Five Savannah River Nuclear Solutions student interns from Historically Black Colleges and Universities recently accepted full-time job offers at the Savannah River Site. From left: Sierra White, J’von Gilmore, Chandlar Glover, Jasper Clements and Camille Smith.

“SRNS primarily supports regional HBCUs by facilitating the development of institutional capacity,” said Anitra McManus, SRNS Human Resources Specialist. “We also offer professional development opportunities, maintain a strong campus presence, and increase work-based learning opportunities for eligible students.”

Since joining SRNS in 2020, McManus has facilitated over 275 student resume revisions, conducted 35 professional development workshops, and visited over 30 college campuses to enhance students’ readiness for the workforce.

“As a result of these efforts, we have noticed a substantial increase in the number of qualified applications and new employees from HBCUs over the last three years,” continued McManus. “In total, SRNS has successfully onboarded 55 HBCU candidates into its work-based learning programs and hired 87 full-time employees.”

SRNS Project Controls intern J’von Gilmore recently graduated from South Carolina State University, one of the most prestigious HBCUs in the state. During the SRNS Internship Program “Signing Day” event, Gilmore was one of four HBCU interns to accept a full-time job offer.

“I learned about the SRNS internship opportunity at a job fair held at my university,” said Gilmore. “In this role, I have gained valuable connections with industry leaders and became more confident in my skills. I am ecstatic about my full-time job offer and can’t wait to transition into my new role in Project Controls.”

From formal training and apprenticeship programs to strategic recruitment and research partnerships, college and university engagement plays a critical role in the future of the SRNS workforce. Current partnerships impact nine states, and include 33 colleges and universities, and 14 Minority Serving Institutions.

“Over 35% of the current SRNS workforce are graduates from our 33 partnering institutions,” said Sean Alford, SRNS Executive Vice President and Chief of Administration. “We aim to build an agile and competent workforce with varied experiences, backgrounds, and perspectives, through these collaborative agreements.”