College of Technology Offers Unmatched Nuclear Training Through Industry Collaboration

A partnership between Idaho State University's College of Technology and Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) is providing students with direct exposure to national laboratory standards in nuclear applications.

The Energy Systems Nuclear Operations Technology program prepares students for specialized in-demand careers across the nuclear industry through rigorous, high-level technical training. ISU is the only program in the nation to offer hands-on experience with a functioning nuclear reactor, nuclear gloveboxes and hot cell manipulators at a single institution, providing graduates with unmatched preparation for this critical field.

During a recent glovebox laboratory session, LANL representatives observed students as they completed hands-on training exercises. The session was structured as practice rather than an exam, allowing students to demonstrate technical skills in a setting aligned with professional expectations.

LANL contributed two gloveboxes for the lab and donated supplies, including lead-lined gloves used in radiation-controlled environments. The equipment allows students to train with industry-standard tools while still in an academic setting.

Jordan Williams and Mackenzie Gorham, clinical instructors in the College of Technology, worked closely with LANL to ensure the curriculum reflects current industry practices. Both faculty members were present during the session as students carried out procedures inside the sealed gloveboxes.

The lab included two groups. Group One students are in their first year of the program and participated in their first industry-observed session. Group Two consists of seniors who have progressed through advanced coursework. Each glovebox station was set up identically, and every student completed the same procedures to demonstrate full operational competency.

Students participating in the session were Jon Beck, Tyler Hardin, Kallister Walker, Jayme Muelemans, Wyatt Schliesleder, Derek Bot and Andrew Lawyer, along with Gavin Bissell.

Inside the gloveboxes, students applied classroom instruction while adhering to detailed safety protocols. The structure of the lab required precision, coordination and attention to procedure. 

LANL representatives observed technique and workflow, providing insight into how training aligns with national laboratory expectations.

LANL also hosted a specialized technical tour over spring break for three students including Tyler Hardin, Wyatt Allen and Jonathan Beck — providing additional exposure to national laboratory operations. In addition, three students from the program Gavin Bissell, Andrew Lawyer and Wyatt Schliesleder  have been selected to participate in LANL’s 2026 summer internship program.

The collaboration reflects the College of Technology's emphasis on applied learning. By incorporating industry participation and professional-grade equipment into instruction, the program prepares students for technical careers that require both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. Recent program enhancements include the renovation of laboratory space to accommodate cutting-edge equipment, including a new set of Hot Cell Telemanipulator Arms — highly specialized electromechanical systems required for processing experiments and conducting operations inside nuclear hot cells.

The Hot Cell Telemanipulator Arms were donated by Sandia National Laboratories, whose support reflects the strong network of national laboratory partners invested in developing Idaho's nuclear workforce.

"The specialized combination of mechanical and electrical troubleshooting needed to maintain and repair telemanipulators, combined with the high level of skill development needed to effectively operate these pieces of machinery was not previously offered in Idaho," explained Gorham, the Nuclear Operations Technology program coordinator. "However, INL maintains multiple hot cells with dozens of manipulator arms and has expressed a need to grow both their repair group and their operator staff."

Idaho National Laboratory has identified a need to expand its repair and operator workforce to support multiple hot cells and dozens of manipulators following the construction of a new specialized facility. 

Through acquisition of this new equipment, students at the College of Technology can gain hands-on experience with the tools and processes used in the field, supporting a direct pathway from education to technician roles. These skills also support the research driving new reactor technologies, demonstrating how Idaho's education and workforce development contribute directly to the growth and advancement of the nuclear industry.

For more information about the College of Technology's Energy Systems Nuclear Operations Technology program, visit www.isu.edu/nuclearoperations