OAK RIDGE, Tenn. – Today, Y-12 National Security Complex celebrated the summer interns who are committing to return to work at the site as full-time employees. The 2026 class of interns joined Y-12 in May, and 33 have chosen to continue their relationship with Y-12 and Consolidated Nuclear Security (CNS), which manages and operates the site for the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA).
This year’s internship class brought accomplished individuals who represent a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences to Y-12. They came from 19 colleges and universities across the country. In their academic careers, more than 80% of the interns have been learning skills identified as critical for Y‑12’s mission.
“Today is an exciting occasion as we celebrate the transition of many of our summer interns into official Y‑12ers,” said Mary Helen Hitson, NNSA Y-12 Field Office manager. “This inaugural intern signing day marks the beginning of a new chapter and the continuation of the hard work, dedication, and growth each of you have already demonstrated throughout your internship experience.”
In congratulating the new employees and welcoming them to the team, CNS President and CEO Todd Ailes assured them that their experiences this summer are just the beginning. He said, “As you move into your positions, I encourage you to continue asking questions, building connections, and embracing new opportunities to grow in your careers. We need to be more agile, more accountable, and more willing to pursue revolutionary change. Your perspectives, energy, and dedication are important to the future of Y-12 and its mission.”
It’s more than a job
Cristy Landrum of Human Resources, who coordinated the interns’ activities, said the interns are provided a good overview of the site. “We want them to have the full Y-12 experience,” she said. “Throughout the summer, they have been able to participate in various tours, including the Fire Department, the Operations Center, Production facilities, the Central Training Facility where our security police officers train, and a history tour that included visits to other historic sites in Oak Ridge.”
“Our internship program was designed with the purpose of creating an experience that extends beyond traditional work assignments,” said Chief Human Resources Officer Rebecca Sisk. “We believe internships should provide exposure, challenge, and opportunity. Through this program, our interns have gained hands-on experience working alongside leaders, mentors, and their peers and participated in meaningful projects.”
Jan West, deputy of Production and Operations, prioritized interacting with the interns this summer and participated in many of the planned activities. “Our goal is to recruit and retain top talent, and this class of interns is impressive,” she said. “Their willingness to learn and ask questions will serve them well as they progress in their careers. The future of Y-12 is bright.”
Y-12 recruits from universities and colleges year-round. To learn more about internships, visit https://www.y12.doe.gov/careers/university-recruitment. Y-12 will begin recruiting for Summer 2027 interns in September 2026, and students are encourage to apply on the Y-12 career website.
Consolidated Nuclear Security President and CEO Todd Ailes addresses Y-12’s summer interns as they prepare to signify their commitment to employment.
Y-12 National Security Complex welcomed 33 new employees from the summer internship class in a celebration on Wednesday, July 22, 2026.
After signing their commitments to employment, Y-12’s newest employees donned official Y-12 ball caps.
Consolidated Nuclear Security President and CEO Todd Ailes welcomed the summer interns to employment at Y-12.