Steven began working for Dominion in 2001. His primary role is to inspect Nuclear Safety Related Material, which is a key element in ensuring safe operation of the reactor and ultimately public safety. Prior to employment with Dominion, he worked on helicopters both in the military (4 years in the Marines) and 16 years at the Patuxent River Naval Air Station. Despite the fact that he had no prior nuclear experience, he was hired for his expansive technical and inspection backgrounds.

Steven had been working toward earning his degree since 1994 and he continued his quest toward obtaining that degree by taking classes at a community college, which was 1 hour away. That set-up was turning a typical 12-14 hour day into an 18 hour day. He would leave work at 5:00 and not get home until 10:30 at night. It was at Dominion that he discovered EPCE’s online nuclear-specific degree program. As stated by Steven, "I knew this program would improve my quality of life and was encouraged by the overwhelming support from the industry. My company values education and encouraged my participation in higher-learning."

Upon starting the online program he received tremendous internal support at Dominion - from both personnel & financial avenues. His supervisor and manager allowed him to check his assignments as long as his work was complete and the company's tuition reimbursement plan was fantastic. "It was apparent that all levels of management recognized my commitment to my education and ultimately the success for Dominion."

When asked to elaborate regarding BSC Steven said, "The instructors at BSC were extremely knowledgeable and helpful. Questions were answered almost instantaneously and the online chat-sessions didn’t take much time, it was a very collaborative environment without being smothering."

According to Steven, he feels his degree, "boosts his marketability and hopes that down the road his degree will make him more promotable." He would like to advance to the next level in his job category, "senior."