THEC Awards Nearly $900,000 in Nuclear Equipment Funding to Support Workforce Development

Media Contact
Jessie Greene
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Press Release

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - The Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) today announced the award of $899,487 in Nuclear Equipment Funding (NEF) grants to four institutions to support the expansion of nuclear education and workforce training programs across the state.

Nuclear Equipment Funding provides non-recurring grants of up to $250,000 to eligible institutions for the purchase of advanced training equipment.

This investment is made possible through the support of Governor Bill Lee and the General Assembly and reflects Tennessee's commitment to strengthening workforce development and advancing energy innovation. By supporting the acquisition of cutting-edge training equipment, the initiative helps accelerate the growth of the state's nuclear energy sector while expanding workforce development opportunities across the region.

About the Tennessee Higher Education Commission

The Tennessee Higher Education Commission was created in 1967 by the Tennessee General Assembly. As the state's higher education coordinating body, its mission is to build a strong higher education landscape that provides opportunities for all individuals to pursue high-quality education and high-value credentials. The following institutions received funding:

• Chattanooga State Community College - $150,000
• Roane State Community College - $249,847
• Tennessee Technological University - $250,000
• ·University of Tennessee, Knoxville - $249,640

"These investments will help ensure Tennessee continues to lead in building a highly skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of the nuclear energy sector," said Dr. Steven Gentile, THEC Executive Director.

Grant contracts began April 1, 2026, and will run for six months.

About the Tennessee Higher Education Commission

The Tennessee Higher Education Commission was created in 1967 by the Tennessee General Assembly. As the state's higher education coordinating body, its mission is to build a strong higher education landscape that provides opportunities for all individuals to pursue high-quality education and high-value credentials.

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