New York opens applications for nuclear energy training to boost sector jobs

New York Governor Kathy Hochul's administration has initiated a significant push to cultivate a skilled workforce for the nuclear energy sector through the NextGen Nuclear New York strategy. This comprehensive plan earmarks $40 million to be distributed over four years for training programs designed to create more employment opportunities within the industry.

The New York Power Authority (NYPA) has opened applications for institutions capable of delivering this specialized training across the state. Funds will be channeled to technical high schools, community colleges, universities, and trade associations. Beyond students, the initiative welcomes participation from unions, manufacturers, organizations, and officially recognized Indigenous or tribal communities. The core objective is to strengthen the nuclear talent reserve by providing education, hands-on experience, paid internships, and facilitating placements in construction and operational roles.

An informational webinar is scheduled for June 18 for organizations interested in applying for these funds. The training initiative is closely aligned with New York's broader energy goals, specifically the aim to develop at least one gigawatt (GW) of nuclear capacity in the northern part of the state. Governor Hochul's office stated this target is part of a larger plan to establish a 5 GW base of reliable nuclear power. Combined with the existing 3.4 GW of nuclear power already operating in the state, this would bring New York's total nuclear capacity to 8.4 GW.

According to the NYPA, information requests were issued in October of the previous year to identify potential communities and partners for project development. The authority received responses from eight communities in the northern region, including Broome, Jefferson, Oswego, Schuyler, and St. Lawrence counties, as well as the city of Dunkirk and RED-Rochester. Interested parties in the funding or training programs can find application details on the NYPA's procurement webpage. For training providers, the relevant document is the Request for Applications (RFA), while details for development companies are also available.