For nearly 30 years, energy and environmental science experts at McGuire Nuclear Station have enthusiastically shared their knowledge with young people through participation in the Boy Scouts of America merit badge program.

The program, which started with 90 scouts at the first encampment at McGuire in 1987, has seen tremendous growth – welcoming nearly 550 young men every year to earn merit badges.

In addition to earning merit badges, Boy Scouts at McGuire and Catawba nuclear stations participate in multiday events and have the chance to pitch a tent and camp out under the stars on the grounds of the power plant or at a nearby campsite.

At Oconee Nuclear Station, scouts participate in a Merit Badge College where they can earn up to four merit badges in one day. Between the three nuclear stations, more than 850 Boy Scouts earn merit badges annually.

Undoubtedly, a big part of the program’s success can be attributed to Duke Energy employees – like Reggie Morehead – who have volunteered as instructors, including scientists, engineers, plant operators and trainers, since the start of the program. At McGuire, more than 150 employees have volunteered since the encampment began.

Each year, Duke Energy and the Boy Scouts continue to work together to find fun and innovative ways to enhance science education for young boys. While scouts leave full of knowledge, events like the merit badge program are another way we share the benefits of nuclear power as a safe and reliable energy source.