Nuclear shipyard worker with questions

[nukeapprentice]

I have recently finished a Nuclear Test Technician Apprenticeship at the Newport News Shipyard. It involved three years testing Naval Nuclear Reactors with experience in test preparation, execution, writing procedures, and various other things to do with naval nuclear reactors. I have a 2 year degree in science with emphasis in Mechanical Engineering. I am interested in going into the commercial industry and wonder what I might need to do or could be qualified to do.

[doctormoo]

call bartlett but if yu have a full time job id stay were i was these days

[Brett LaVigne]

Congratulations on knowing to leave the yard after training/min experience before you go broke! It looks like you have a nice career ahead of you with your training and experience. Newport News Shipbuilding provided a nice start to my career as well, I left in 92.

Contract RP type work is a great way to start seeing the commercial industry and building a network that will eventually land you where you want to be in the position you want to be in.

Good luck.

[mostlyharmless]

Perhaps you could take a look at the doe sites. Your background looks good and would appeal to the folks at the doe sites.

[UncaBuffalo]

I wasn't familiar with what 'Test Technicians' do, so...  

http://www.apprenticeschool.com/advanced5.html

"Nuclear Test Technicians perform an important role in the new construction and overhaul of naval nuclear ships. The Nuclear Test Technician (NTT) functions as the on-site representative of the Shift Test Engineer (STE). They oversee all elements of reactor plant testing and coordinate this testing with Trades, Inspection, Radiological Control, and NAVY personnel. Apprentice NTTs participate in a 3-year rotation plan that provides a variety of experiences across all shipboard platforms and disciplines. Initially reporting as an Electrical Test Engineer or Mechanical Test Engineer, each apprentice gets the opportunity to gain valuable experience in the other major test discipline, as well as rotations through the procedure writing, planning, technical support, and nuclear engineering training groups. By the end of their apprenticeship, individuals will have completed all aspects of required training and practical factors to put them in excellent position to transition into the STE Qualification Training Program."

Looks like you are oriented as much towards the mechanical side, as towards RadCon?  

Seems like your background might get you in the door doing valve testing, refueling, maintenance, system engineering, operations, rx engineering, or...?

Personally, I would shy away from RadCon (aka - RP/HP/RCT) if you can.  If you go RadCon, you will be limiting your choices further down the road.  Over the last 25 years, RadCon pay & availability-of-work has been very cyclical...right now it is on the up-swing, but...

Good luck!