The Virginia Innovative Nuclear Hub (VIN Hub) is pleased to share the release of the second phase of the “Virginia’s Nuclear Workforce Needs” report, prepared by Mangum Economics. This updated analysis provides a timely and data-driven look at one of the most critical challenges—and opportunities—facing the Commonwealth: building the workforce needed to support the expansion of nuclear energy in Virginia. Key takeaways from this report include

• Electric demand is rapidly increasing. Forecasts indicate that Virginia’s electricity demand could double within the next decade, driven by electrification and the rapid growth of data centers and advanced technologies.
• Nuclear energy is essential to the solution. As a carbon-free, always-on energy source, nuclear power—particularly Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)—is uniquely positioned to support grid reliability and clean energy goals.
• Virginia is already a national leader. With major industry players like BWXT, Framatome, and Newport News Shipbuilding, the Commonwealth has a strong foundation for growth.
• Workforce gaps are significant. The report identifies substantial shortages across key occupations, including engineers, electricians, welders, IT specialists, and nuclear technicians—posing a major constraint to future deployment.

The report estimates that even a single 300 MW SMR could support 2,000 construction jobs and 150 long-term operational jobs, with multiple projects planned over the coming decades. However, without targeted action to expand education, training, and workforce pipelines, Virginia risks falling short of the talent needed to realize this opportunity. This report reinforces the need for coordinated statewide action across:

• Higher education and workforce training programs
• Industry partnerships and certification pathways
• Military-to-civilian workforce transitions
• Expanded simulation, technical, and hands-on training infrastructure

By acting now, Virginia can position itself as a national leader in nuclear workforce development, capturing both the economic and energy benefits of next-generation nuclear technologies. Read the full report here.