Fifteen apprentices have successfully completed the Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) Nuclear Operator Program, earning their Nuclear Fundamental Technology certificates from Augusta Technical College (ATC) in Augusta, Georgia. These graduates are now poised to become fully-qualified operators within the SRNS Savannah River Tritium Enterprise (SRTE) upon fulfilling all employment requirements.

JC Epting, SRNS Senior Vice President NNSA Tritium Operations and Programs, expressed enthusiasm for the new cohort. "We are excited to have this wonderful group of graduates join us in Tritium," Epting stated. He emphasized the critical role of SRTE as the sole facility in the nation capable of preparing tritium for the nuclear weapons stockpile, highlighting that these new operators will be instrumental in meeting national security commitments.

During the graduation ceremony, Epting offered words of wisdom and encouragement, formally welcoming the new operators to SRTE. The event honored the 15 graduates, featuring opening remarks from Julie Langham, Vice President of Economic Development at ATC, and Epting. Special guest speakers included Edwin DeShong, Department of Energy-Savannah River Deputy Manager; Wendy Lark, Site Training Deputy Director for the National Nuclear Security Administration and Environmental Management; and three participants from the graduating class.

William Prather, one of the apprenticeship program graduates, is transitioning into SRTE’s Tritium Extraction Facility. Prather conveyed his gratitude for the program, noting its effectiveness in equipping him with the essential skills and knowledge required for a successful career as a nuclear operator. He remarked, "This apprenticeship program was more than training. It was an opportunity to gain important knowledge while building hands-on experience. It also gave us the ability to build meaningful relationships with the people we will be working with.”

The eight-month Nuclear Operator Program provides a unique learning experience, integrating classroom instruction at a partnering technical college with paid on-the-job training alongside experienced senior operators. This comprehensive approach also ensures students gain a thorough understanding of the safety protocols and work culture at the Savannah River Site, facilitating a seamless transition into their full-time positions.

BooBoo Roberts, SRS Apprenticeship and Pipeline Training Program Manager, underscored the program's commitment to apprentice success. "The apprenticeship program at SRS ensures apprentices' success by offering a competitive wage and fundamental knowledge in their discipline through our partnering technical colleges. This program provides hands-on experience alongside seasoned professionals and on-the-job training, helping to build confidence in their professional abilities,” Roberts explained. He added that through structured mentoring and training, apprentices develop a strong foundation that prepares them to thrive in their facilities, thereby helping the company meet its deliverables.

Roberts further noted that the apprenticeship program offers participants the opportunity to earn both a Technical College Certificate and a U.S. Department of Labor Certificate. These two nationally recognized and portable credentials enhance their professional qualifications and career mobility.

The SRS Apprenticeship Program was developed in partnership with Apprenticeship Carolina and the Lower Savannah Council of Governments. Its creation aimed to address attrition levels and establish a pipeline for mission-critical positions at the Site. The program collaborates with Aiken Technical College, Augusta Technical College, and Denmark Technical College to provide comprehensive educational training.