Season 2 of the TENNTalks podcast dives deeper into the opportunities shaping Tennessee’s future. Each episode features real voices from across the state making an impact. Browse all episodes below, with new ones added as they release.

All Episodes:

▶ Watch Season 2 Episode 1 Here

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EP. 1: The Vision of Fission – Nuclear Careers in Tennessee

The latest episode of the TENNTalks podcast reveals a startling truth: the future of global energy is being forged right here in Tennessee. From the ridge-lines of Oak Ridge to the rural communities of East Tennessee, a “Nuclear Renaissance” is underway, promising to transform the state into a world leader in clean, independent power.

▶ Watch Season 2 Episode 1 Here

The Voices Behind the Episode

But this isn’t just a story about technology, it’s a story about people. The episode features five distinct voices, each proving that the path into this high-tech world is wider and more accessible than many think.

The journey into the nuclear sector often begins with a single moment of curiosity. Carol Roberts, a process engineering manager at Nuclear Fuel Services, illustrates this perfectly as she describes pivoting from a planned career in pharmacy to leading a team of engineers just five miles from her childhood home. Her story is a testament to the idea that you don’t have to leave your roots to change the world.

For those who take a more unconventional route, the military often serves as the ultimate classroom. Al Onley draws on his 26 years of experience operating reactors in the U.S. Navy to explain how technical grit and a strong work ethic can lead to a rewarding career as an operations director, even without a traditional engineering degree.

The infrastructure behind this growth requires a massive effort in education and coordination. Theresa Duncan of Roane State Community College highlights the critical role of Tennessee’s community colleges and TCATs, emphasizing that for every high-level scientist, the industry needs a small army of skilled technicians, welders, and electricians to build the future.

However, the industry needs more than just builders; it needs voices. Nikki Sizemore, who works in government relations for Kairos Power, proves that you can lead in the nuclear space through law and policy, sharing how she overcame severe dyslexia and a non-technical background to advocate for advanced reactor technology.

Finally, the vision is anchored by state leadership. Governor Bill Lee frames this movement as a “renaissance” for rural Tennessee, arguing that the state’s focus on vocational training and energy independence will ensure that the next generation of Tennesseans is prepared for the billions of dollars in investment coming to our region.

Breaking Down the Industry

A common thread among all the speakers is the emergence of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). These are not the massive cooling towers of the past; they are smaller, safer, and more efficient units that can be factory-built.

Baseload Power: Unlike wind or solar, nuclear provides “24/7” power, which is essential for the growing demands of AI and data centers.

Clean Energy: Nuclear power is carbon-free, making it a primary tool in protecting the environment while meeting massive electricity needs.

The Job Market: With a projected shortage of 350,000 skilled workers nationwide, Tennessee students are entering one of the most stable and high-paying job markets in history.

Conclusion

The message from the TENNtalks panel is clear: whether you are a student, a veteran, or a career-changer, the nuclear industry is no longer a closed door. By staying curious and utilizing state resources like the Tennessee Promise, you can find a place in the global epicenter of energy.

As Carol Roberts puts it, “Stay curious and don’t stop learning… it can change into something wonderful.”