Employee Spotlight: Kelli Davis

Just two months into her role as Cape Fear Community College’s Nuclear Technology Program Director, Kelli Davis is on a mission to help students intentionally pursue this rewarding career rather than stumble upon it as she did.

With effectively 20 years of experience in nuclear power, Kelli worked her way up through the industry after unexpectedly finding herself in a field she once knew little about.

Finding Nuclear Technology by Accident

After earning her undergraduate degree in chemistry, Kelli initially struggled to find a job. “I just wanted to use my chemistry degree,” she said.

“I applied for a nuclear chemist position in Burbank, California, and didn’t even know what that meant at the time,” she recalled. “I went in for the interview, they liked me, and they gave me all the training I needed. And that’s how my nuclear career started, completely by accident.”

That first job opened doors, leading her into a two-decade career in nuclear power, spanning multiple states and roles. “It was the best decision I ever made.”

More Than a Career

Kelli’s career has always been driven by her children. As a single mom of four, she worked tirelessly to provide for them and be a role model. “My kids have been incredibly proud to say what I do for a living. That was important to me,” she shared. “Any time I spend away from my family has to matter. In nuclear power, I knew my work meant something. I was helping maintain the stability of the power grid, which is critical to our society.”

A Passion for Educating

Because of her success in the industry, Kelli has always had a passion for helping others pursue nuclear careers.

“I want students to make purposeful decisions about their futures,” she said. “There are so many careers in nuclear beyond what people think. You can be a chemistry technician, a health physicist, an environmental specialist, or an operator. There are even nurses and construction workers in the field. People don’t know what they don’t know, and I want to change that.”

Her desire to guide the next generation ultimately led her to CFCC. “I saw the posting for the program director position, and it was the perfect way to take all my work experience and purposefully help people find nuclear technology as a career.”

Building the Future of Nuclear Technology at CFCC

At CFCC, Kelli is already working hard to expand the Nuclear Technology program. She’s focused on strengthening partnerships with the industry, increasing work-based learning opportunities, and building mock-up areas that simulate real nuclear environments.

She also wants to raise awareness about the field, especially among women and minorities.

“If you are a woman, if you are a minority, this is a career for you too,” she emphasized. “People don’t always see themselves in this field because they don’t see representation. I want to change that.”

Why Choose Nuclear Technology?

For students considering the program, Kelli offers a compelling pitch.

“Nuclear is inherently safe. It’s structured, well-paying, and rewarding. If you want stability and a career where you’re making a real contribution to society, this is it.”

She also emphasizes the financial benefits. “Most people don’t realize that nuclear is one of the highest-paying careers you can enter with just an associate degree. It provides financial stability without the burden of extensive student loan debt.”

With her passion and experience, Kelli Davis will make a lasting impact on CFCC’s students and the future of the nuclear workforce.

“The students are my focus. I want them to be excited about learning. And I want them to find nuclear on purpose.”

To learn more about CFCC’s Nuclear Technology program, visit cfcc.edu/nuclear-technology .