Denmark Technical College and Savannah River Nuclear Solutions celebrate newest nuclear operator apprentices
Denmark Technical College and Savannah River Nuclear Solutionsrecently celebrated the latest completers of its Nuclear Operator Apprenticeship Program, recognizing 12 apprentices who completed rigorous training designed to prepare skilled professionals for careers supporting the Savannah River Site and the nation’s nuclear industry.
The apprenticeship program is part of Denmark Tech’s growing partnership with Savannah River Nuclear Solutions and provides participants with intensive academic and technical preparation coupled with real-world experience. Through an earn-while-you-learn model, apprentices develop the specialized knowledge and skills required for careers in one of the region’s most critical industries.
“These completers represent what can happen when education, industry and opportunity come together,” said Eric Brown, president and CEO of Denmark Technical College. “They have put in the work, developed valuable skills and prepared themselves to step into careers where they can make a real impact. This is what it means to be built for what’s next. We are proud to be part of their journey and proud of the partnerships that make opportunities like these possible.”
Kevin Whitt, chair of the Denmark Technical College Area Commission and director of operational excellence and quality assurance at Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, delivered the keynote address. A leader in the nuclear operations field for more than three decades, Whitt spoke about the opportunities ahead for the completers and the importance of developing the next generation of the nuclear workforce.
“These completers will take on positions that directly support the Department of Energy and National Nuclear Security Administration,” Whitt said. “Having worked in the nuclear field in both military and civilian capacities, I know the value of having skilled, well-prepared people who understand the responsibility that comes with this work. Denmark Technical College and Savannah River Nuclear Solutions are creating a pathway that prepares people for those responsibilities and for careers with tremendous opportunity. As chair of the Area Commission, I am especially proud to see Denmark Tech helping build that workforce right here in our region.”
“Programs like this allow us to invest directly in the people who will carry this work forward,” added BooBoo Roberts, SRNS program manager for apprenticeship programs and pipeline development workforce training. “These apprentices have put in the time, accepted the challenge and developed skills that are essential to our mission. We are proud to welcome another group of prepared professionals into the nuclear workforce.”
The Nuclear Operator Apprenticeship Program is part of Denmark Technical College’s broader commitment to connecting students and workers with high-demand careers through responsive workforce education. The college’s energy-related training programs bring education and industry together to address critical workforce needs while creating pathways to well-paying, sustainable careers.
Through partnerships with industry and government, Denmark Technical College continues to expand opportunities that connect education directly to workforce demand. The Nuclear Operator Apprenticeship Program is one example of that commitment, providing participants with specialized preparation for careers that contribute to the Savannah River Site’s critical missions while strengthening the skilled workforce throughout the region.
The 2026 completers are Thomas Amburn, Elisabeth Corley, Jackie Holman, Bryan Hurt, Noah Jarrard, Tyler Jarrard, Patrick Kaufelds, Carl McGee, Robert Overstreet, Lance Ray, Clyde Seider and Chance Whittle.