Utah State University, Hi Tech Solutions, and Brigham City announced Monday a partnership to develop a proposed nuclear training and research campus in northern Utah. The initiative aims to establish a regional hub for education, workforce training, and innovation within the nuclear energy, national defense, and nuclear technology sectors.
Workforce and Research Goals
The proposed campus is designed to bolster the local economy and strengthen national energy resilience by securing high-quality career pathways for students and skilled tradespeople. According to KSL News, the project focuses on filling critical gaps in the industry through professional certification, technical trades, and applied research. These efforts include equipping workers with specialized skills for nuclear operations, quality assurance, and advanced manufacturing, alongside providing industry-sponsored simulation laboratories and equipment testing.
Addressing Industry Labor Gaps
Hi Tech Solutions President and COO Chris Hayter noted during a press conference at Utah State University's Brigham City campus on Monday that the industry currently lacks sufficient personnel in engineering, education, and skilled trades. Hayter described the agreement as a way to catalyze collaboration between various entities, including other educational institutes and private sector groups, to build the facilities necessary to train the next generation of the advanced nuclear and energy workforce.
Alignment with State Energy Initiatives
The development follows a previous announcement from Hi Tech Solutions and Holtec International last November regarding plans for a "nuclear energy ecosystem" in the Brigham City area. This earlier plan proposed the construction of four to 10 small modular reactors utilizing nuclear technology around the city. This new campus aligns with a broader push for nuclear power in the state, such as Governor Spencer Cox's "Operation Gigawatt" initiative.
Legislative Perspective on Energy Transition
Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, stated that the planned campus fits seamlessly with the state's energy goals. Schultz noted that as the state transitions away from coal over the next one to two decades, nuclear energy will likely play an increasingly significant role both in Utah and worldwide. He emphasized that facilities like this are crucial to ensuring Utah maintains low energy costs for its residents while securing the necessary energy supply for future decades.
Support for Non-Traditional Students
The campus is also intended to serve non-traditional students through specialized programs. These include credentialing, apprenticeship, and workforce transition programs designed to leverage the technical military experience of veterans. Such pathways aim to prepare individuals for careers in nuclear engineering support, plant operations, maintenance, and safety-critical roles necessary for national security.
Partnership Framework and Roles
Under the memorandum of understanding, the three partners will divide responsibilities to ensure long-term project viability. Utah State University will provide academic leadership, curriculum development, faculty expertise, and research capabilities, while also providing a long-term ground lease for the designated property. Brigham City will support site master planning, infrastructure coordination, regional economic development, and local permitting.
Development and Leadership Roles
Hi Tech Solutions will act as the master developer, responsible for financing, developing, and coordinating sub-development. The company will also provide industry expertise, equipment, technology resources, and internship or employment pathways. Utah State University President Brad Mortensen said the collaboration offers an opportunity to explore new approaches to technical training and research that support economic growth and Utah's leadership in energy and national defense.
