Roane State Community College

April 22, 2026

Roane State was recently awarded $249,847 in Nuclear Equipment Funding (NEF) grants by the Tennessee Higher Education Commission (THEC) to support the expansion of nuclear education and workforce training programs.

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

THEC is distributing a total of $899,487 to four institutions across the state this year. Roane State is one of two community colleges selected to receive grant funds; Chattanooga State was also awarded $150,000. The remainder of the funding is split between two universities – Tennessee Technological University and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville.

Roane State offers associate of applied science degrees in nuclear technology, chemical engineering technology, and environmental health technology. These programs teach hands-on nuclear and radiological related operations, connecting students with internships to meet the short-term gap for skilled workers and technicians in the region. All three programs will benefit from this funding.

Courses are taught by industry experts and each program is deeply connected to the college’s many workforce partners. Leaders in these industries are frequently consulted when developing curriculum standards so that Roane State graduates develop the skills needed for success. The NEF grant will be led by the director of the Nuclear Technology Program, Dr. Joe Stainback IV.

“We are sincerely thankful for this funding, which enables Roane State to expand cutting-edge training and help prepare the next generation of nuclear professionals in a rapidly growing industry,” Dr. Stainback said of the award.

“Nuclear technicians play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of facilities right here in East Tennessee,” Roane State President Chris Whaley said. “As our partners across the state continue to prioritize projects supporting this workforce pipeline, we see the direct impact of these efforts as we place graduates into well-paying careers that benefit generations of Tennesseans.”

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 high-tech training equipment, the initiative helps accelerate the growth of the state’s nuclear energy sector while expanding workforce development opportunities across the region.

“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,” THEC Executive Director Dr. Steven Gentile said.

Grant contracts began April 1 of this year and will run for six months. Information about THEC is available at tn.gov/thec. Details on Roane State’s Nuclear Technology Program (NTP) can also be found online at roanestate.edu/nuclear.