Old post from 2015, but want to comment for future readers like myself who are now entering the prototype NUPOC program.
In the year 2024, lots of commercial and civilian jobs in the energy sector won't hire you without experience of some sort. Whether that is having a background in industrial mechanics, journeymen electrical, or engineering.
I was in my late 20s and chose to go back to college after working retail for 10 years. I had no practical experience just a degree. No one would hire me even as an unlicensed operator. The field has become extremely competitive.
I chose to go on tour for one year out at sea, and then four years as a prototype instructor. I come out of the Navy and can step right into licensed reactor positions at nuclear power plants. I immediately get hired with Navy on my resume, from places that would have not even opened my application before.
I agree if you have some job background in the trades, it would be a no brainer to step into a commercial plant position. The Navy program fast tracks my resume, and I'm not required to serve out at sea for five years. I was also able to finish college without having to work full time since NUPOC paid me to attend.
