COLUMBIA, SC, Oct 8, 2026 – Bechtel and the University of South Carolina’s Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing have partnered to establish a fund for nuclear workforce training. The Bechtel Nuclear Energy Workforce Development Fund will support preparation for engineering, project management and skilled-trades careers in nuclear construction, operations and maintenance.
The fund will:
- Support experiential learning and workforce-development programs connecting students and trainees with nuclear-sector careers.
- Draw on Bechtel’s 70 years of nuclear experience to develop curricula and training materials for professionals entering nuclear construction.
- Create opportunities for collaboration among Bechtel, the university, technical colleges, building-trades partners and other workforce organizations across South Carolina.
“South Carolina has the talent, experience, and supporting infrastructure to play an important role in America’s nuclear future,” said Dena Volovar, president of Bechtel’s nuclear, security & environmental business. “Bechtel is proud to partner with the University of South Carolina because of its ability to bring together industry, educators, and workforce partners. This kind of collaboration is essential to building the talent pipeline required for the next generation of nuclear projects.”
“The future of nuclear energy in South Carolina depends on a workforce ecosystem that prepares people for the full range of careers this industry will require,” said Hossein Haj-Hariri, dean of the Molinaroli College of Engineering and Computing. “Bechtel’s investment will help us strengthen partnerships among industry, technical colleges, the skilled trades, and the university, creating more opportunities for South Carolinians to contribute to this important sector.”
“South Carolina’s nuclear energy future depends on a highly skilled workforce ready to support every stage of this industry, from construction and operations to advanced technical roles,” said Dr. Tim Hardee, president of the SC Technical College System. “The SC Technical College System is proud to partner with Bechtel, the Nuclear Innovation Center, our colleges, industry, and higher education partners to create pathways that prepare South Carolinians for meaningful careers in this growing sector.”
“South Carolina has long been one of the top producers of nuclear power in the nation. Now, we are focused not only on maintaining that nuclear output but also on preparing the next generation of nuclear workers right here in Columbia,” said Columbia Mayor Daniel J. Rickenmann. “The partnership between the University of South Carolina and Bechtel Corporation will bring together industry, building-trades, and education to recruit and train America’s future nuclear leaders. It was an honor to demonstrate my commitment to this initiative at the Palmetto Nuclear Coalition Summit as we work together to develop the workforce ecosystem needed to capture the economic opportunities ahead and advance career prospects in the City.”
“Bechtel’s investment is an important step in building the workforce South Carolina will need to compete for the next generation of nuclear projects,” said Ethel Bunch, founder and president of the Palmetto Nuclear Coalition. “Connecting industry, USC, our technical colleges and the skilled trades create real pathways into high-value careers while strengthening the state’s ability to attract investment and grow its nuclear economy.”
Nuclear Projects and Construction Methods
Bechtel is delivering three AP1000 reactors as EPC partner for Poland’s first nuclear power plant. It also works on nuclear national security missions and a range of reactor technologies and future nuclear projects.
“The opportunity for new nuclear energy projects is currently the greatest it has been in our generation,” added Volovar. “Meeting this moment requires more than technology. It requires a highly skilled workforce and the ability to execute projects safely, efficiently, and with certainty. We’re applying proven practices from Vogtle and our experience in mega-project delivery to the next generation of nuclear development, including three AP1000 reactors in Poland. This includes employing the best in delivery from across our portfolio to be ready to deliver these exciting projects with cost and schedule certainty.”
Apprenticeship Development
Bechtel and North America’s Building Trades Unions (NABTU) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) in May’26 to update nuclear construction apprenticeships. Their work includes identifying craft skills, updating curriculum with training centers and expanding recruitment for careers building reactors. Bechtel reports more than 20,000 professionals working across its active projects.
Source: Bechtel
About Bechtel
Bechtel Corp., founded in 1898 and based in Reston, VA, is a privately held global engineering, procurement, construction and project management company. It delivers infrastructure projects across sectors including energy, transportation, mining, metals, nuclear security, environmental cleanup and advanced manufacturing. With operations in more than 160 countries, Bechtel has completed more than 25,000 projects and employs over 50,000 people worldwide. Its services include the development of liquefied natural gas facilities, power plants, metro systems, pipelines and complex infrastructure. The company works with government agencies, industrial clients and private developers to support national and regional development goals.
