Building A Skilled Workforce To Achieve Türkiye's 20 GW Nuclear Energy Goals
As Türkiye embarks on an ambitious journey to achieve 20 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2050, the country’s approach to nuclear energy is marked by its forward-looking strategy. This includes a combination of large-scale nuclear power plants (NPPs) and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), emphasizing the importance of a diverse and secure energy future. Key milestones in Türkiye’s nuclear landscape include 4.8 GW currently under construction at Akkuyu, another 4.8 GW planned at Sinop, 5.6 GW in the Thrace region, and 5 GW from SMRs set to begin after 2035. With these developments, the country is positioning itself as a serious player in the global nuclear market.
However, achieving this ambitious goal requires more than technological investment. It necessitates a robust and highly skilled nuclear workforce, capable of supporting the complexities of modern nuclear energy. The rising demands for skilled professionals in nuclear science, engineering, operations, and project management are becoming increasingly apparent in Türkiye’s nuclear energy future.
Dr. Sule Ergun, an associate professor of nuclear engineering at Hacettepe University, emphasized during a discussion hosted by the Nuclear Business Platform (NBP) that human resource development is central to Türkiye's nuclear program. The strategic approach to building a skilled workforce in this sector involves both quantitative and qualitative aspects. Dr. Ergun stressed the importance of meticulous planning in cultivating professionals capable of supporting the entire nuclear ecosystem. She added that, in addition to domestic efforts, Türkiye actively engages in international collaborations with leading institutions in nuclear research from countries such as Russia, China, Japan, the USA, and the UK. These partnerships are essential for knowledge exchange, technological transfer, and advanced training—key elements in the development of a highly skilled nuclear workforce critical to the success of Türkiye's nuclear ambitions.
Key Workforce Development Initiatives
Recognizing the pressing need for skilled professionals, Türkiye has initiated several key programs aimed at strengthening its nuclear workforce:
Scholarship Programs:Every year, around 500 Turkish students are sponsored to pursue graduate studies in nuclear-related fields at leading international institutions in the UK, USA, Russia, and Germany. These students play a crucial role in bridging the knowledge gap by returning to work at Türkiye’s key nuclear institutions, such as the Ministry of Energy (MENR-GDNE) and the Nuclear Regulatory Authority (NDK).
International Collaborations: Agreements with countries like Russia provide students with both theoretical and practical training, preparing them for key roles in Türkiye’s nuclear projects.
Internship Programs: Collaborative internships with global nuclear institutions, along with IAEA-sponsored training, offer valuable practical experiences, enhancing the capabilities of Türkiye’s future nuclear workforce.
Role of Research: Türkiye operates two key nuclear research reactors that play an essential role in workforce development. The ITU-TRR, a 250 kW reactor at Istanbul Technical University, is primarily used for educational and research purposes. The TR-2 reactor, located at the Çekmece Nuclear Research and Training Center (ÇNAEM), is a 5 MW reactor used for the production of radioisotopes for medical and industrial applications. These reactors provide critical hands-on training opportunities for the next generation of nuclear engineers and technicians, offering them the practical experience required for future roles in nuclear power plants.
Other Frameworks for Nuclear Workforce Development
Recognizing the urgent need for skilled professionals, Türkiye has implemented advanced tools and frameworks for effective workforce development. The IAEA Nuclear Power Human Resource (NPHR) modeling tool allows for comprehensive assessment and planning of human resource needs. Additionally, the Nuclear Human Resource Knowledge Development Network, established in 2017, reinforces coordination among government entities, industry stakeholders, and academia. A key element of this strategy, the Plant Owner’s Nuclear Education Program, has enabled 358 Turkish students to pursue nuclear engineering and NPP operation studies in Russia.
In pursuit of excellence, TÜNAŞ has developed the Normative Skill Matrix, a foundational tool that outlines the necessary competencies across all phases of Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) projects, defining over 150 critical profiles for project success. Complementing this is the ‘Skills and Knowledge Pool,’ which supports human resource development and anticipates future project needs through the Target Skill Matrix.
TÜNAŞ has also conducted a comprehensive Gap Analysis based on these matrices, leading to the creation of a Competency Development Plan. This plan serves as a decision support tool that shapes strategies for competency development, enhances recruitment and training processes, and outlines career pathways. Its practical application is evident in the Turkish Nuclear Training Centre (TNTC), which contributes to building a skilled and dynamic workforce. Furthermore, TÜNAŞ will host the Türkiye Nuclear Business Platform (TNBP) this October in Adana, focusing on the future of the Turkish nuclear market and fostering collaboration with international stakeholders.
Business Opportunities in Türkiye's Nuclear Workforce Development
Training Programs: Companies can collaborate with educational institutions to create specialized training programs tailored to the nuclear industry's needs, focusing on reactor operations and safety protocols.
Simulation Technologies: Developing advanced simulators and virtual training environments can enhance workforce training by providing practical experience in a risk-free setting.
Consulting Services: Businesses can offer consulting expertise to organizations on workforce development, regulatory compliance, and training effectiveness, including conducting gap analyses and strategic planning.
Internship Programs: Establishing collaborative internship and apprenticeship programs will provide students with essential hands-on experience, creating a pipeline of skilled professionals for the industry.
International Collaborations: Engaging in partnerships with foreign institutions facilitates knowledge exchange and technological transfer, enhancing workforce capabilities.
Research Facilities: Investment in nuclear research reactors and training centers will provide critical hands-on training, with companies participating in funding and managing these facilities.
As Türkiye advances toward its ambitious nuclear energy goals, the development of a skilled workforce emerges as a critical element for success. Dr. Sule Ergun highlighted that Türkiye’s youth are eager to pursue careers that make a positive impact on the world, with the nuclear sector offering both job security and the opportunity to contribute to national and global energy transitions. This enthusiasm reflects the importance of a capable workforce in not only meeting Türkiye’s nuclear energy goals but also sustaining the country’s position in global energy markets. Additionally, Yusuf Ceylan, Director General of NUTED, emphasized, “An essential consideration in Türkiye’s approach to human resource development is the sustainability of long-term projects in the country.” By fostering a robust talent pool and focusing on sustainability, Türkiye can ensure the long-term viability and competitiveness of its nuclear sector, reinforcing its energy security and economic growth.
