Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) is turning its Education Outreach Programs, particularly the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Savannah River Regional Science Bowl, into a pipeline of talent for the Savannah River Site (SRS).
Each year, the fast-paced competition draws students from across the region to compete in a “Jeopardy!”-style academic contest covering subjects like biology, physics, chemistry and math.
Behind the excitement lies a bigger mission: connecting young minds with real-world opportunities in science, technology, engineering and math.
“It’s more than just a game,” said SRNS Education Outreach Specialist Cindy Hewitt. “This event is often the first spark that ignites a student’s path toward a career in STEM — and for some, that path leads straight back to SRS.”
Recent hires Parth Patel, Sarah Bass, and Braden Lewis are proof. All three once competed in the Science Bowl and now work at SRS as engineers — and volunteers.
Patel, a fire protection design authority engineer, described the event as a defining moment.
“My teacher introduced me to the competition and fostered my passion,” said Patel. “Now I get to give back and show students where STEM can take them.”
Sarah Bass, who helped launch her school’s Science Bowl team, said watching students grow in confidence was a highlight.
“Seeing them buzz in and succeed is heartwarming,” she said. “It’s about more than winning — it’s about discovery and connection.”
Braden Lewis, hired in March, credits Science Bowl with developing his strengths in math and physics.
“It helped me realize I wanted to pursue engineering,” he said. “Volunteering now feels like coming full circle.”
SRNS officials say the impact goes beyond personal stories. With SRS planning to hire 9,000 new employees over five years, early outreach has become a key recruitment strategy, according to a press release from SRS.
“Programs like Science Bowl are good for the community — and good business,” said SRNS Education Outreach Lead Kim Mitchell. “By building relationships early, we’re shaping a more innovative and loyal future workforce.”
SRNS plans to expand its outreach through more school partnerships across the Central Savannah River Area, investing in the next generation of STEM leaders while securing its own future.
