Georgia Power announced the latest milestone in the transition to operation of Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 – members of the first training class of nuclear operators have passed the initial licensing exam by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission, ensuring that licensed, qualified operators are in place prior to nuclear fuel loading and plant start up. Once operational, the new units will employ approximately 75 highly trained nuclear operators as part of a permanent workforce of more than 800. 

The three-week testing process encompassed simulator testing, job performance measures and a written exam. The operators now must complete an additional six months of preoperational testing before receiving their licenses.

"Nearly four years have gone into training and preparing this class with countless hours in the classroom and simulator," said Karen Fili, site vice president for Vogtle Units 3 and 4. "This team will help bring the new units online for the first time and will be well-prepared to help ensure safe and reliable operation for as long as the units are in service."

The new Vogtle units are among the first built in the U.S. in the last three decades and, once online, will serve customers for more than 60 years. The four-unit Plant Vogtle is expected to generate more electricity than any other U.S. nuclear facility, enough to power more than one million homes and businesses.