Watch August episode of Energycast
 In our August episode, we explore a breakthrough providing a pathway to eliminate waste that’s been in storage for more than 50 years. DOE releases the finalists on its list of potential sites for an AI data center. Kairos Power discusses recent teamwork with OREM and UCOR that saved time and money as they prepared for the construction of their demonstration reactor at the East Tennessee Technology Park. Our team also highlights interns who completed their summer term, and early career federal employees who are leading Oak Ridge's cleanup mission forward. Finally, we brave the heat and gain a deeper appreciation for crews out in the field. Safety experts discuss how they ensure workers remain safe during high summer temperatures.
Technology demonstration proves successful
 Drawing from an innovative technology, the Oak Ridge Office of Environmental Management now has a pathway to eliminate a complex waste that’s been in storage for the past 50 years. The GeoMelt technology heated material to more than 2,700 degrees Fahrenheit, turning reactive metals into a stable glass form for safe, permanent disposal. The recent successful demonstration project represents a crucial step in addressing challenging legacy waste streams from America's nuclear research history.
Robotic system crucial for upcoming cleanup projects
Some of the most challenging and contaminated structures are awaiting demolition at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The Oak Ridge Office of Environmental Management and contractor UCOR are currently testing new remote equipment that will help workers as they remove these facilities by significantly increasing their distance from potential hazards, reducing exposure, and making the work safer. |
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Summer intern program provides valuable career experience
 A new generation of workers received valuable career experience and mentorship from Oak Ridge Office of Environmental Management contractor UCOR this summer. More than 40 students from 10 schools completed summer internships in 2025, learning numerous aspects of the company’s project and business operations. In addition to a growing number of participants, professions students can pursue have grown, too. This year, UCOR offered opportunities in engineering, data analytics, nuclear safety and criticality, environmental services and characterization, waste programs, business and financial management, and public affairs.
Roane County teachers learn about Oak Ridge's expanding career opportunities
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Nearly 300 public school teachers, career counselors, and school administrators from 11 middle and high schools in Roane County recently attended Nuclear Careers Day. They learned about Oak Ridge's environmental cleanup mission from UCOR employees and a growing list of jobs made possible by our cleanup success. |
 To keep the community informed about on the latest updates related to environmental cleanup on the Oak Ridge Reservation, the Oak Ridge Office of Environmental Management is hosting an open house poster session on Oct.16 from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at the Oak Ridge Conference Center. The event will feature posters with information about ongoing and upcoming projects, and top subject matter experts will also be on hand to share updates and answer questions.
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