Closing the workforce age gap at cleanup sites is a major priority for the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). By establishing connections with students throughout their college careers, ETAS hopes to encourage and assist the next generation of professionals in this essential work, while helping them to gain hands-on experience in their area of study.

During World War II and the Cold War, uranium enrichment sites were constructed to manufacture and stockpile enriched uranium for national defense and energy programs. Two such sites were built near Portsmouth, OH, and Paducah, KY. Now decommissioned, the DOE is working to decontaminate and demolish these plants. Suitable land will be returned to local communities for economic development.

Every aspect of this program is designed to prepare students for a career after graduation. The application process will provide experience creating a resume, gathering letters of reference, and going through an interview process. Once accepted, interns will gain on-site work experience in their field while supporting the needs of the DOE cleanup sites in Ohio and Kentucky. Throughout their time at ETAS, each intern will be paired with a mentor, who will supervise their work and answer any questions they might have. Along with daily tasks, interns will be required to complete midterm and final evaluations, as well as a formal final presentation at the conclusion of the program. By the end of the program, students will be stronger writers and communicators, with professional work experience and connections in their field. Interns will also be paid, starting at $25 an hour, and may receive college credit for their work. Returning interns will be granted preferential status when applying to future internships, as well as co-op and entry level positions within ETAS and our client organizations.

15 internship positions will be available across the Lexington, KY, Paducah, KY, and Portsmouth, OH locations.