For generations, Eastern Kentuckians have powered this country.
Now, a new opportunity is emerging — one that builds on the skills already here while opening doors to something more.
Through a new partnership between SOAR and the Kentucky Community and Technical College System, a clear training pathway is being created to connect people across the region to careers in the nuclear energy industry.
What Is Nuclear Outage Work?
Let’s start with what this is—and what it’s not.
When people hear “nuclear,” they often think of emergencies or disasters. That’s not what this work is.
Nuclear outage work is planned, scheduled maintenance.
Power plants across the country regularly pause operations to:
- Upgrade systems
- Perform inspections
- Refuel reactors
This work is structured, safety-focused, and relies on skilled workers who can perform technical tasks in high-value environments.
A Program Designed for Real Life
This training is built to fit into real life while preparing you for real work.
- 16-week program
- 15 hours per week
- Three days a week
- Five hours a day
It’s enough time to build real skills—without requiring you to step away from everything else.
What You’ll Actually Learn
This is hands-on training designed around what employers need.
You’ll gain experience in:
- Safety and OSHA certification
- Blueprint reading and precision tools
- Mechanical systems and fluid power
- Electrical systems and motors
- Automation systems (PLCs)
- Troubleshooting real-world system issues
Each day combines classroom instruction, hands-on lab work, and career readiness training like communication, teamwork, and accountability.
By the end of the program, you’re not starting from scratch—you’re stepping into employer training with a strong foundation already in place.
Built for a Different Kind of Opportunity
These are not traditional, stay-in-one-place jobs.
This is work designed for people who want:
- Higher earning potential
- Flexibility between projects
- The ability to travel and gain experience
You go where the work is. You apply your skills. And when the project is done, you come home.
For many, that means:
- Earning in months what might take a year locally
- Working across the country
- Staying rooted in Eastern Kentucky without relocating
Support Every Step of the Way
Once training is complete, participants are connected to the Eastern Kentucky Talent Network, where they receive:
- Direct access to employers
- Hiring events and job opportunities
- One-on-one support
More than 40 Eastern Kentuckians are already working in nuclear outage roles today.
This creates a pathway for many more.
A New Way Forward
Too often, the choice has been simple: Stay and earn less, or leave to earn more.
This creates another path. One where you can build a career, earn a high income, and still call Eastern Kentucky home.
Ready to get started? Learn more here.