Students first learn the operations fundamentals of a naval nuclear power plant and the interrelationship of its mechanical, electrical, and reactor subsystems at a Prototype School on fully functional nuclear reactors. Students develop oral communications skills, obtain an understanding of nuclear radiation, and gain knowledge of the safe operation of a complex Naval nuclear power plant.

After qualifying at the training facility, nuclear operations focus on continuing training on board their assigned vessels. Key skills developed include:

• Knowledge of integrated plant operations and efficient watch-team cohesion in dynamic scenarios
• Operational Risk Management
• Maintenance planning and execution
• Emergency response and communication
• Radiation protection practices
• Industrial safety practices including equipment lock-out processes, electrical safety, and configuration management
• Fundamental reactor operation scenarios such as start-up, shut-down, and maintenance preparations.
• The ability to train junior personnel