Tennessee remains a national leader in the specialized nuclear industry sector. To ensure our state continues to lead America’s renewed push for energy independence, Tennessee College of Applied Technology Upper Cumberland reminds students about programs currently available as pathways into the nuclear energy industry.
Through programs such as building construction technology, electrical maintenance, machine tool technology, trucking and welding, all 23 Tennessee colleges of Applied Technology (TCATs) will play a role in further solidifying the highly skilled, highly motivated workforce required to meet the growing demands of the nuclear energy industry in Tennessee.
“We are excited for the opportunity to help more of our graduates launch careers in the growing nuclear sector,” said President Cliff Wightman. “As new nuclear-based companies choose Tennessee, we understand the critical workforce needs they bring — from welding and HVAC to electrical and advanced manufacturing. We are committed to expanding and adapting our training programs to meet this demand for highly skilled talent. This is a tremendous win for Tennessee, and we are proud to play a meaningful role in supporting the state’s future-focused workforce.”
The nuclear industry sector is a top workforce priority for TBR – The College System of Tennessee in 2026. This industry generates a $9 billion economic impact in Tennessee. Since 2019, the state has landed 11 industry projects, creating 2,232 new jobs with a capital investment of over $6.96 billion. More than 40,000 direct and indirect nuclear jobs are already here, with additional announcements anticipated in the years ahead.
“The development of a robust nuclear workforce to fill the highly skilled nuclear-related jobs available across our state is essential to Tennessee’s current and future economic success,” said Tennessee Board of Regents Chancellor Flora W. Tydings. “Our technical colleges provide critical skills and training to strengthen the state’s existing nuclear workforce pipeline, and to address immediate, emerging and long-term needs of nuclear companies looking to establish operations in our great state.”
For more information on programs offered at TCAT Upper Cumberland leading to jobs in the nuclear energy field, visit us at tcatuppercumberland.edu.
The Tennessee College of Applied Technology Upper Cumberland is at the forefront of technical education, offering a diverse range of programs that equip students with the skills needed for today’s workforce.
As part of the Tennessee Board of Regents system and accredited by the COE, TCAT Upper Cumberland ensures a high-quality educational experience focused on student success and job placement. TCAT Upper Cumberland is led by President Cliff Wightman.