Step Into Nuclear: Maintenance Tech Training at Cape Fear Community College with Kelli Davis
📍 Episode Summary:
In this episode of Naked Nuclear, host Danielle Allen sits down with Kelli Davis, Program Director of the Nuclear Technology Program at Cape Fear Community College. From her start as a nuclear chemist to becoming an advocate for building the next generation of nuclear workers, Kelli shares her inspiring career path, insights into nuclear maintenance training, and why this career is more than just a job—it's a lifestyle.
💡 What You’ll Learn:
The unique journey Kelli took from chemistry to nuclear education
What Cape Fear’s Nuclear Maintenance Technician program includes
Why behaviors and coachability matter more than technical background
How the industry is evolving with small modular reactors and a growing need for workforce development
Real talk about union vs. non-union plants, upward mobility, and career satisfaction in nuclear
👩🏫 Who This Is For:
High school grads and career changers interested in hands-on work
Curious minds exploring pathways into the nuclear industry
Families, advisors, and educators helping students find purposeful careers
🛠️ Classes Offered at Cape Fear:
Welding, reactor theory, hydraulics & pneumatics, non-destructive testing, primary systems, and more
🌍 Kelli’s Big Message: “You don’t need to grow up wanting to be a nuclear worker to become one. You just need the right mindset, a little mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn.”
📬 Connect with Kelli:
Learn more at Cape Fear Community College
Email: kndavis245@mail.cfcc.edu
💬 Have a question or want to suggest a topic?
Email Danielle at danielle@nakednuclear.com
🎧 Subscribe, rate, and stay curious.
Season 2 of Naked Nuclear is your inside look at nuclear education—from trade schools to industry. Whether you're thinking about your future or helping someone else shape theirs, we’ve got you covered.
