Nuclear Energy & Technology
A Dynamic Ecosystem at the Forefront of Advancement
Since the 1950s, the nuclear energy and technology industry has fostered a robust and enduring presence in the Lynchburg region. Major atomic energy players BWX Technologies and Framatome Inc. both have their headquarters here and are surrounded by a network of manufacturers and suppliers, making our region a hub for this high-tech industry.
A significant factor in the Lynchburg region’s success is its concentration of mechanical engineers, which is more than three times the national average. Our talent pool is continuously replenished by programs at Central Virginia Community College and Liberty University, and further bolstered by cutting-edge research and development at Liberty University’s Center for Engineering Research & Education in Bedford County.
Currently Employed in the Nuclear and Related Fields
Lynchburg Regional Business AllianceEducation Awards in Industry Related Fields
Lynchburg Regional Business AllianceInvestment by Framatome to Expand its Lynchburg Facility in 2023
Lynchburg Economic Development AuthorityFeatured Employers
All in the Nuclear Family
The Lynchburg region boasts a wealth of talent for the nuclear energy and technology industry, thanks to robust educational programs and strategic partnerships. Central Virginia Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science degree in Nuclear Technology, which combines classroom learning with hands-on training. Students gain practical experience in maintenance, electricity, engineering, and programming at a real-world Framatome project site, preparing them for the demands of the industry.
Liberty University offers a degree program in electrical engineering. The university has also partnered with Framatome at the Center for Energy Research and Education (CERE) — a research and innovation facility fueled by the expertise of Framatome’s experienced professionals and LU’s academic staff as well as the creativity and fresh perspective of LU’s students. The facility, which has been in existence since 2011, expects to drive economic activity and add to the thousands already employed in the region’s atomic energy sector.
A Self-Propelling Industry
National and international leaders in the Lynchburg region’s nuclear industries have attracted numerous businesses across the nuclear energy and technology supply chain. BWX Technologies and Framatome Inc., both headquartered in the city of Lynchburg, have significantly invested in the area.
Framatome’s latest $49 million expansion of its Operational Center of Excellence will create over 500 new jobs and refurbish its nuclear training center to support advanced reactor technologies, modernize existing office spaces, and add capacity for an innovation and design school.
BWX Technologies makes all the nuclear cores, fuel, and equipment for every submarine and every aircraft carrier in the U.S. Navy fleet. In 2024, BWXT continued deepening its roots in the region by expanding its Mt. Athos site in Campbell County with the BWXT Innovation Campus.
In addition to BWX Technologies and Framatome, companies such as Delta Star (power transformers and mobile substations manufacturer), Flowserve (pumps, valves, seals, and actuators manufacturer), Parker Hannifin (polymetric sealing systems manufacturer), and Wiley|Wilson (architectural and engineering services) continue to contribute to our region’s thriving nuclear energy and technology industry — which comprises 2.4% of the total Lynchburg region’s GDP.
It is estimated that close to 28% of the nearly $150 million supply chain revenue for the Lynchburg region’s nuclear industry comes from businesses located in the region. This leaves strong opportunities for additional suppliers, including firms specializing in:
- Management, scientific, and technical consulting services
- Chemical manufacturing
- Iron and steel mills
- Nonferrous metal production and processing
- Architectural and structural metals
BWX Technologies in the Lynchburg Region
BWX Technologies manufactures nuclear cores for the U.S. Navy. Hear from their CEO on why the company is headquartered in Lynchburg and why they’ve remained in the region for 60+ years.
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Leading Stories in Lynchburg
Get the latest on recent business expansions, community initiatives, and developments affecting the business community in the Lynchburg region.
Source4 to expand operations in Bedford County investing $4.5 million and creating 30 jobs
The Bedford County Office of Economic Development, in partnership with the Economic Development Authority (EDA), is pleased to announce that Source4, an integrated business and marketing solutions provider, will invest more than $4.5 million and add 30 new jobs in Bedford County over the next five years. “We have enjoyed our experience in Bedford County […]
Huge Win for CVTC Master Redevelopment Plan
On June 8, the Lynchburg Regional Business Alliance held a press conference at the former Central Virginia Training Center, featuring Senator Steve Newman, to announce the General Assembly has included $25 million in the state budget to fully defease all outstanding bonds associated with CVTC. Additional speakers at the event included Megan Lucas, CEO and […]
Lynchburg EDA selected to receive $500K from EPA for brownfield redevelopment
Lynchburg’s Economic Development Authority again has been selected to receive $500,000 in assessment grants from the Environmental Protection Agency to continue to assist businesses and property owners to identify, assess and begin redevelopment of brownfields. According to a news release, funding dedicated to the assessment of sites potentially affected by hazardous substances and petroleum will […]
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