IDAHO FALLS, Idaho — Registration is now open for the first two student programs offered through the BEA Applied STEM Institute at College of Eastern Idaho (CEI).

Beginning in September, the Nuclear Industry Symposium and IDEA Academy will connect students with industry professionals, emerging technologies and career pathways shaping the future of Idaho’s workforce.

Nuclear Industry Symposium

The Nuclear Industry Symposium will be held Wednesday, September 16, in partnership with Idaho National Laboratory (INL).

The one-day event will give high school seniors an opportunity to explore careers across the nuclear industry. Students will hear from industry leaders, connect with professionals working in the field and participate in interactive sessions focused on nuclear career pathways.

“The nuclear industry offers incredible opportunities for the next generation of innovators, engineers, technicians, scientists and skilled trades professionals,” said Mary Stephenson, associate vice president of K-14 and Rural Initiatives at CEI. “The Nuclear Industry Symposium gives students a chance to learn directly from experts and discover how they can be part of this growing industry.”

“The future of nuclear energy depends on the workforce we build today,” said Hope Morrow, Workforce and Economic Development Programs manager at INL. “By bringing education and industry together, we can give Idaho students a clearer path to rewarding, high-demand careers while building the skilled workforce our region and nation will need for decades to come.”

Space is limited, and participants must be high school seniors. Homeschooled students are welcome. Students can register online at www.cei.edu/stem

IDEA Academy

IDEA Academy will begin Tuesday, September 22, and continue for nine weeks. Classes will be held Tuesdays from 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.

Focused on artificial intelligence, the fall academy will help students build a foundational understanding of one of the world’s fastest-growing technologies. Participants will learn how AI works, explore the responsible and ethical use of AI tools and develop practical skills they can apply in academic and professional settings.

Students who complete the academy will also have the opportunity to earn an industry-recognized AI certification as they prepare for college and future careers.

“Artificial intelligence is transforming nearly every industry and becoming an essential part of education and the workplace,” said Frankie Adams, director of the BEA Applied STEM Institute. “IDEA Academy will empower students to use AI thoughtfully and responsibly while strengthening the critical thinking, creativity and human judgment that drive true learning.”

Students must be at least 16 years old to enroll in IDEA Academy.

The BEA Applied STEM Institute was established to create hands-on educational experiences that connect students with high-demand careers and emerging technologies. Through partnerships with industry leaders, the Institute provides career-connected learning designed to strengthen Eastern Idaho’s future workforce.

Battelle Energy Alliance operates Idaho National Laboratory for the U.S. Department of Energy. The BEA Applied STEM Institute combines CEI’s educational expertise with INL’s leadership in nuclear energy, integrated energy systems and national security to develop programming and curriculum for high school students.

Registration for both programs is now open. Participants are encouraged to register early, as enrollment is limited. For additional information or to register, visit www.cei.edu/stem, email stem@cei.edu or call 208-535-5700.

About the BEA Applied STEM Institute

The BEA Applied STEM Institute at College of Eastern Idaho expands access to high-quality STEM education and career-connected learning for high school students. Through hands-on programming and industry partnerships, the Institute will help strengthen the region’s pipeline of future STEM professionals.

For more information about the BEA Applied STEM Institute, upcoming programs or partnership opportunities, contact:

Mary Stephenson
College of Eastern Idaho
Associate Vice President of K-14 and Rural Initiatives
Phone: 208-535-5457
Email: mary.stephenson@cei.edu
Website: www.cei.edu/stem

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About the College of Eastern Idaho
College of Eastern Idaho offers associate degrees, select bachelor’s degrees, technical certificates, and workforce training programs to help students achieve their educational and career goals. With a focus on affordability, accessibility, and student success, CEI is dedicated to providing high-quality education and training to the residents of eastern Idaho—redefining what comes next. Visit cei.edu for more information.