Georgia Power announced the latest milestone in the transition to operation of Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 –  the members of the first training class of nuclear operators have passed the initial licensing exam by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

The three-week testing process involved 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.”

Once operational, the new units will employ approximately 75 highly trained nuclear operators as part of a permanent workforce of more than 800.