South Carolina State University has officially unveiled a state-of-the-art NuScale Energy Exploration (E2) Center, establishing itself as a global leader in nuclear energy education. This advanced facility features a simulated control room that mirrors the operations of a real nuclear power plant, offering students unparalleled hands-on training in nuclear systems.
The E2 Center, one of only ten such facilities worldwide and the only one in South Carolina, is now fully operational. It provides students in SC State’s unique four-year Nuclear Engineering Program – the only one of its kind at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) in the nation – with immersive experience using industry-standard technology.
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“This is an exciting moment for SC State,” said President Alexander Conyers. “The NuScale Energy Exploration Center gives our students a front-row seat to the future of clean energy. It’s not every day you get to bring a virtual nuclear reactor into the classroom. That kind of access can spark curiosity, open career paths, and change lives.” He further emphasized the partnership’s role in bolstering SC State’s research mission and its significance in driving national innovation, particularly in workforce development with partners like the Battelle Savannah River Alliance.
On Wednesday, NuScale Power officially handed over the fully installed E2 Center. The simulator replicates real-world advanced nuclear plant operations, specifically NuScale’s Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology.
“We are excited to partner with SC State on our 10th E2 Center, helping to build a strong workforce of nuclear energy innovators,” stated John Hopkins, NuScale President and CEO. “As clean, reliable power demand grows, so does the need for skilled professionals. This facility will offer students practical experience, problem-solving skills, and the expertise to advance clean energy solutions.”
Transforming Nuclear Engineering Education
Dr. Stanley Ihekweazu, Dean of the College of Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Transportation, highlighted the E2 Center’s transformative impact. “It transforms how we prepare future engineers — moving beyond textbooks to immersive, industry-standard training,” he said. “This kind of access not only strengthens our nuclear engineering program but also empowers our students to lead in a field that is vital to our nation’s energy future.”
Aniya Zielgler, an SC State nuclear engineering student, sees the E2 Center as a significant career advantage. “This is more than just a milestone for SC State — it’s a personal game-changer for me,” Ziegler shared. “I’m gaining access to cutting-edge technology and hands-on experiences that will directly prepare me for a future in the nuclear energy industry… It’s an inspiring step forward for my education, my career, and for students like me across the country.”
The NuScale E2 Center allows users to act as control room operators via a 12-module SMR control room simulator. Key features include a digital procedures library, a tiered abnormality notification system, integrated emergency procedures, and automated sequences for operational control.
Building a Skilled Workforce and Fostering Innovation
Dr. Musa Danjaji, Chair of SC State’s Department of Engineering, emphasized the practical skills students will gain. “Through interactive training, students learn to operate a reactor, monitor systems, and respond to emergency scenarios,” Danjaji explained. “Graduates who undergo simulator training are well-equipped for careers in plant operations and nuclear systems engineering.”
Beyond classroom applications, the E2 Center aims to promote collaborative research and build connections with industry leaders, academic partners, and government entities.
Dr. Frederick Evans, SC State’s Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, described the simulator as invaluable. “It will allow students to safely explore complex systems, gain hands-on experience, and develop critical thinking skills in a realistic, immersive environment,” he said.
SC State also acknowledged the support of Rick Lee, Chairman of the South Carolina Governor’s Nuclear Advisory Council. The university actively collaborates with institutions like the University of South Carolina and Clemson University in support of the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) and the Battelle Savannah River Alliance (BSRA), further strengthened by a recent $8 million state award for STEM education and research.
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