An engineering education provides a variety of pathways for careers and vocational pursuits. For chemical engineering senior Caroline Turnbull, her vocation was found in the military through the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program (NUPOC).
The Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program (NUPOC) plays a crucial role in shaping the future of military leaders within the U.S. Navy. The program is a collaborative effort between the Department of the Navy and the Department of Energy, responsible for managing all elements of the Navy’s nuclear propulsion systems. NUPOC offers financial support for education and a structured pathway to active duty service from collegiate schooling, integrating academic learning with military training.
As of June 2024, Turnbull was accepted into NUPOC as a surface warfare officer. This positions Turnbull for a fulfilling career within the U.S. Navy, marking a pivotal moment in her academic and professional journey.
Upon graduation, Turnbull will commission into Officer Candidate School, committing to five years of service. Her initial assignment will be on board a conventional surface ship for 18 months, where she will acquire critical hands-on experience and develop leadership skills.
Following this assignment, Turnbull will attend Nuclear Power School, a rigorous program designed to equip her with the technical knowledge essential for her role. After completing this training, she will serve for an additional 18 months on an aircraft carrier, further enhancing her expertise as a nuclear officer.
Securing a place in NUPOC came with challenging and extensive preparations. The interview process routinely spans six months. It begins with an introductory phone call to a recruiter, followed by the completion of necessary paperwork and the submission of academic transcripts for screening. Candidates who advance past this stage participate in structured phone interviews designed to evaluate their technical knowledge in calculus and physics, alongside their ability to articulate clarity in reasoning.
The process culminates in a trip to Washington, D.C., where candidates undergo technical interviews with professionals from Naval Reactors. Turnbull was one of 20 candidates to interview in D.C. in June.
The final assessment was conducted by four-star Admiral William J. Houston, Director of Naval Reactors. This behavioral interview plays a decisive role in determining acceptance into NUPOC, emphasizing the high standards of commitment and excellence expected from all candidates.
In Turnbull’s interview, she noted the admiral embodied a relatable spirit. Turnbull shared her desire to serve in the military, carrying on the legacy her family has set. She remarked her interest came from witnessing her father serve, creating in her a passionate academic and one who exemplified the military’s humble leadership style.
The admiral concluded the interview by stating, “I want you to call your dad and tell him you got into the program.”
Turnbull did just as the admiral ordered. “When the admiral gives you an order, you follow it out of respect for him and the military,” Turnbull said.
Turnbull swore into the military immediately following her interview in June.
Leadership is a foundational value for Turnbull, as she is inspired by organizations that actively promote the inclusion of women in engineering. She reflects on the significance of understanding leadership dynamics as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field. Embracing the concept of "humble leadership," she recognizes that challenges are inherent in any role. Turnbull finds it reassuring to see a genuine commitment to this leadership style within NUPOC, emphasizing the importance of a supportive and inclusive culture.
"The only way I was able to navigate this journey was through the support group I had around me," Turnbull said. "My family and recruiter supported me in my studies, and discussing challenges helped make them feel manageable and constructive. You do not have to be something you are not to succeed in the military."
Turnbull began her journey as a student through the UD Sinclar Academy (UDSA), finding this program to be invaluable in its balance of independence and close proximity to home. The support system provided by advisors at both UD and Sinclair Community College has been instrumental in her academic journey, offering a well-structured program with a predetermined course plan.
As a senior, she will continue her work as a Neighborhood Fellow, member of Society of Women Engineers and a leader in the Rivers Institute with the Fitz Center for Leadership in Community.
“Your potential often exceeds what you might envision for yourself,” Turnbull said.
To her, this serves as a valuable reminder that what may initially seem impossible can be achieved with dedication and effort.
“If you fully apply yourself, you can accomplish your goals,” Turnbull said. “If you let the expectations of others guide what you think about yourself, you will never find something that speaks to you.”