BWXT Unveils State-of-the-Art Innovation Campus to Accelerate Advanced Nuclear Technologies
BWX Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: BWXT) has officially opened its cutting-edge BWXT Innovation Campus, a 170,000 square-foot facility in Lynchburg, Virginia, dedicated to advancing nuclear technologies for land, sea, and space applications. This landmark development underscores BWXT’s commitment to innovation and positions the company as a leader in next-generation nuclear solutions. The campus serves as the headquarters for BWXT’s Advanced Technologies business unit, housing over 350 skilled team members who are pioneering advancements in nuclear systems for government agencies, national research labs, state governments, and commercial partners.
A Hub of Innovation Driving Economic Growth
The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked a significant milestone, with Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin addressing employees and dignitaries. “The opening of the BWXT Innovation Campus highlights Virginia’s leadership in advanced nuclear technologies and our commitment to fostering innovation that drives economic growth and contributes to America’s national security,” said Gov. Youngkin. “As we embrace the future of nuclear energy, space exploration, and defense, Virginia remains proud to be home to the brilliant minds at BWXT who are developing cutting-edge solutions that will shape the industries of tomorrow.”
In 2021, BWXT secured local and state tax grants worth up to $2 million, contingent on an investment target of $65 million and hiring 97 additional employees. Since then, the company has exceeded expectations, hiring 115 new employees and consolidating all Advanced Technologies operations in Lynchburg. To date, BWXT has invested $51 million in the Innovation Campus and received $227,000 in tax incentives, with further grant payments anticipated by the second quarter of 2026.
“This facility is a long-term investment, not only in BWXT but also in Lynchburg and the Commonwealth of Virginia,” said Rex Geveden, BWXT President and CEO. “Here in this Innovation Campus, our Advanced Technologies team is pushing the boundaries of nuclear technology and its applications across multiple domains. We are incredibly excited about the future we are creating here.”
Supporting Regional Prosperity Through Collaboration
The Innovation Campus has been widely celebrated as a catalyst for regional prosperity. Frank Rogers, County Administrator for Campbell County, expressed enthusiasm about BWXT’s continued presence in the area. “BWXT is a vital partner in our region’s prosperity. Campbell is pleased to partner for this additional investment in their facility and operation. We look forward to continued innovation and expansion in the years to come as BWXT continues to call Campbell County home.”
Pioneering Projects at the Innovation Campus
The Innovation Campus is already home to several groundbreaking projects that showcase BWXT’s expertise in advanced nuclear systems. One notable initiative is the development of a demonstration mobile microreactor for the Department of Defense (DoD), sponsored by the Strategic Capabilities Office (SCO). Known as Project Pele, this transportable microreactor aims to provide clean, reliable energy to meet mission-critical power demands.
“The origins of America’s first Generation IV nuclear reactor lie in the men and women who are bending metal and producing real hardware,” said Dr. Jeff Waksman, SCO’s program manager for Project Pele. “Through collaborative teamwork among the DoD, DOE laboratories, and industry partners, we are witnessing Project Pele’s potential to deliver a reliable, sustainable, resilient, and safe power source for the American warfighter without burdening them with a long logistics tail.”
Another key focus area is nuclear thermal propulsion for space exploration. BWXT has been collaborating with NASA and the Department of Energy (DOE) since 2017 on groundbreaking designs for nuclear thermal propulsion systems. These efforts aim to revolutionize space travel by providing efficient propulsion and power solutions for deep-space missions.
In 2023, BWXT was selected as part of a joint venture to deliver fuel and reactor components for the DARPA DRACO program, a partnership between DARPA and NASA aimed at developing a nuclear thermal rocket engine for an in-space demonstration. This project exemplifies BWXT’s ability to translate innovative concepts into tangible solutions.
Advancing Commercial Applications with BANR Technology
Beyond defense and space exploration, BWXT is also making strides in commercial nuclear applications. The company is currently developing the BWXT Advanced Nuclear Reactor (BANR), a high-temperature gas reactor designed to produce 50 MWt using TRISO fuel. Compact enough to be transported by rail, ship, or truck, the BANR offers versatile deployment options for remote locations or industrial sites.
In a recent development, BWXT signed a letter of intent with Tata Chemicals Soda Ash Partners LLC to explore deploying up to eight BANRs at a mining site in Wyoming. This collaboration highlights the potential of advanced nuclear reactors to support sustainable energy solutions in resource-intensive industries.
Revolutionizing Nuclear Deployment
Joe Miller, President of BWXT Advanced Technologies, emphasized the transformative impact of the Innovation Campus. “The message we’re sending today is that we are building and delivering new nuclear technology for defense, space, and commercial customers. Our products will revolutionize how nuclear is deployed. Bring us your ideas, the projects you want to bring to life, and we will put a solution in your hands from this one-of-a-kind facility.”
From Concept to Reality: Shaping the Future of Nuclear Energy
At the Innovation Campus, BWXT’s Advanced Technologies team moves seamlessly from concept to reality, designing, building, and testing innovative nuclear solutions. Whether powering remote locations, enabling rocket propulsion for space missions, or supporting industrial applications, BWXT is redefining what’s possible in the field of nuclear technology.
By investing in cutting-edge facilities like the Innovation Campus, BWXT is not only driving technological progress but also contributing to national security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. As the company continues to push the boundaries of nuclear innovation, it reinforces its position as a global leader in advanced nuclear technologies.
