Thinking outside the box creates a winning environment
Nick D. and Kiki R. are wrapping up their 10-week stint at Y-12
Some problems encountered at Y‑12 require a broader perspective, like paying better attention to the details of business models, administrative procedures, and statistical trends. While many engineers and scientists learn principles and then apply them to technical problems, data analysts who apply statistical principles to business problems can offer a new perspective. That is where the Graduate Assistantship Program, also known as GAP, comes in. In partnership with the University of Tennessee, Y‑12 has a contract in place where students enrolled in the Haslam College of Business master of business administration (MBA) program participate in a fellowship at the site.
Nick D. and Kiki R. are wrapping up their 10‑week stint at Y‑12 (they will complete the fellowship in the fall semester by working several hours each week). The two share similar backgrounds in that they were college athletes (Nick for University of Delaware football and Kiki for University of Tennessee softball), and both will graduate in December with MBAs. The pair shared their perspectives on the GAP, acknowledging that they accepted the fellowship without knowing a lot about the Y‑12 mission but are taking away valuable lessons learned.
“I was not expecting to find the community of family I found here,” Kiki said. “Everyone wants to help you move forward in what you’re doing.”
Nick agreed. “It’s a family‑like atmosphere. There is very serious work going on at the site, but everyone is open to helping you.”
Nick is working with Jim H. in Y‑12 Technical Assurance to apply analytical skills to Y‑12 Production. “Jim offers a wealth of knowledge… Working with him is like drinking from a fire hose,” joked Nick in terms of the variety of information he is gaining.
“Nick and Kiki brought what any prospective employer would want: an insatiable appetite for learning, a different perspective, and a great attitude,” said Jim. “They brought insight and creativity to a variety of projects, ranging from fissile material handler training to artificial intelligence, but their greatest contribution by far was in how they shattered my preconceptions!”
Kiki, who is working with Jacob S. in the Production Activities Training group, shared that her time at Y‑12 has been filled with leadership experience opportunities.
Jacob said, “Kiki has been a valuable addition to the Production Activities Training team. She revamped our SharePoint site, resulting in a streamlined and more efficient platform that enabled an easier interface for all users. She has also brought unique leadership experience as a D1 athlete and facilitated a forum to share her perspective on leadership with our entire team.”
Working at a government facility wasn’t something either student had considered. “There are good opportunities in most areas — even if it is an area where we normally wouldn’t have thought we would have joined,” Kiki said. “Stepping into these new areas opens our minds to new doors. It’s good to have different experiences as well as a variety of references and contacts.”
Nick said he had an idea of what he wanted to do next as part of his MBA education, but a fellowship at Y‑12 wasn’t what that idea originally looked like. “I’m glad I stepped outside the box of my ‘plan.’ I’ve appreciated the journey and connections I’ve made. The experiences have been valuable.”
Ashley H., former program manager for University and Industry Partnerships, said, “These fellowships are subcontracts we have with UT, giving the fellows opportunities a traditional intern might not have. It is important for leadership to support this program and continue bringing GAP students to Y‑12. Their presence gives us opportunities to bring in students who may not be considered otherwise [because their expertise is in a different or non‑STEM discipline].” Ashley left CNS August 15 to pursue other opportunities, but she hopes to see continued opportunities and success from the programs and students as they continue to grow. “My mission for outreach and mentorship is part of my core values, regardless of where I work,” she added.
Jacob stated that Y‑12 is moving into a new era, with a large percentage of the site population nearing retirement. “In the near future, we have the start‑up of the Uranium Processing Facility and Lithium Processing Facility; it is paramount that we [Y‑12] do not miss an opportunity to hire great candidates to support our mission, regardless of their area of study.”
According to Jacob, having an MBA student on the team reenforced the importance of the new Y‑12 GOLD program (Growth, Opportunity, Leadership, and Development — a site leadership development program). “Y‑12 must continue to develop well‑rounded leaders. Kiki’s innate ability to lead was impressive. Having no knowledge of our facilities or processes, she quickly adapted and was able to create positive change in our organization almost immediately.”
Jim said that the pair challenged his own way of thinking. “I had a very narrow notion of the skillsets I thought were ideal [for job placement], but Nick and Kiki’s intelligent and articulate engagement in every discussion made me realize that I must broaden the qualities of an ‘ideal’ candidate.”
Both Nick and Kiki were complimentary when asked about the GAP. “Go into the program with an open mind — even if it’s not something you think you would do,” she said.
“You’ll be surprised what you will learn,” Nick added.