Nuclear Reactor Safety Training and Workforce Development Program

The Nuclear Reactor Safety Training and Workforce Development Program supports the implementation and development of workforce programs aimed at addressing gaps in training for the nuclear reactor industry. It seeks to develop or enhance industry-recognized credentials to support the safe operation of existing nuclear reactors and workforce growth for new reactor deployment. The program operates under the Department of Energy’s Office of Nuclear Energy and is funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024. The program has two main objectives. The first is topic area one, which focuses on demonstrating and implementing reactor safety training programs. This includes the establishment or enhancement of industry-recognized nuclear reactor safety training credentials. Consortia applying under this topic must have already identified workforce training gaps and propose projects that result in implemented training programs and recognized credentials. The second is topic area two, which emphasizes the development of new training pathways, curriculum, and faculty development at institutions such as universities and community colleges. Projects in this area must establish partnerships with utilities, labor organizations, state and local governments, and tribal nations to support sustainability and implementation. Eligible applicants include domestic institutions of higher education, including historically black colleges and universities, tribal colleges and universities, and other minority-serving institutions. Sub-applicants can include other higher education institutions, for-profit entities, non-profits, state and local government entities, Indian tribes, utilities, and federally funded research and development centers. Universities located near nuclear power plants with operational safety experience will receive priority consideration. Foreign entities are not eligible to apply. The total estimated federal funding for the program is one hundred million dollars over a five-year period, subject to appropriations. For topic area one, individual awards will range from five million to forty million dollars, with up to eight awards anticipated and a period of performance of up to five years. For topic area two, awards will range from five hundred thousand to two million dollars, with up to ten awards expected and a performance period of two years. All projects require a cost share of at least 50 percent of total project costs. Applications must include standard forms such as SF-424, a detailed project narrative, a budget justification, resumes for key personnel, a community benefits plan, and documentation of partnerships or cost-sharing commitments. Applicants must clearly outline the project’s objectives, milestones, deliverables, and sustainability plans. The community benefits plan must address job quality, diversity, equity, inclusion, and benefits to disadvantaged communities under the Justice40 initiative. The submission deadline for the first round of applications is January 14, 2025, at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time. Applications must be submitted electronically through proposalsworkforce.inl.gov. Future application cycles will be announced, contingent upon funding availability. For questions related to the program or application process, applicants may contact NRST@id.doe.gov. The program aims to ensure a skilled, resilient, and diverse workforce that will support the continued safe operation and expansion of the nation’s nuclear energy capacity.