Venckus (pictured left) learned about the NUPOC program during a Nuclear Engineering Opportunity Night (NEON) event, where the Navy had a booth. “The representative told me about the benefits of the program, such as getting paid while in school,” Venckus noted. “As part of the application process, I traveled to San Diego and toured naval ships, including a submarine.” He mentions that the submarine was particularly interesting, influencing his decision to apply for a submarine officer position. “Once I met the academic requirements, I was invited to Washington, D.C. for a series of technical interviews and an interview with Admiral James F. Caldwell, Director of Naval Reactors.”

Venckus is looking forward to success in his naval career, and to seeing what the future will hold after his five-year commission.

The Navy NUPOC program has no degree requirement to join. Students interested in applying must have taken two semesters of calculus, two semesters of calculus-based physics, and have a GPA over 3.0. Part of the application process is an all-expense-paid trip to San Diego, California to tour a nuclear submarine, an aircraft carrier, and virtual training facilities. These experiences allow applicants to determine their interest in a career as a Nuclear Officer.

While in the program, NUPOC collegiate students at Purdue earn $4,000 per month for up to 30 months before graduation, with some program options receiving a $15,000 bonus. Once accepted into the program, students return to school and meet grade requirements. Upon graduation, there are no uniform, drilling, or grooming conditions.

Learn more about the Nuclear Propulsion Officer Candidate (NUPOC) program.

Learn more about the School of Nuclear Engineering at Purdue at: https://engineering.purdue.edu/NE