The Contest
The purpose of the CNTA Essay Contest is to promote a better understanding of nuclear technology among high school students. It also provides an incentive for the development of written communication skills that are vital to continued success in education and in the workforce.
NEW FOR 2026- Award amounts up to $1,500 for winning essays!
Over the course of the Essay Contest program, CNTA has awarded over $100,000 to deserving students.
Application Process
The 2026 Essay Contest is now accepting entries. Deadline is February 28, 2026!
The 2026 Essay Contest Rules and Regulations has the details on who can apply and how to submit your entry.
The 2026 Essay Contest Entry Form is required to accompany all entries.
Eligibility
- Open to high school juniors and seniors in Aiken, Allendale, Barnwell, Burke, Columbia, Edgefield and Richmond County schools, homeschool students, and children of CNTA members regardless of school district.
- Each contestant must prepare his or her own essay about one of the listed topics.
Contestants must submit one (1) copy of their essay in its final form to the Contest Director by the due date of February 28, 2026. Each essay must be accompanied by an Official Student Entry Form. No faxed copies will be accepted, please email them.
Contest Criteria
Submit a 1,000-1,500 word essay on one of three topics. The 2026 topics are:
- Many scientific innovations have come from the Savannah River Site, which turns 75 this year. Pick one and explain what the innovation was and how it has improved our lives. What would our world look like without this innovation? Options include: discovery of the neutrino, Pu-238 and other special isotope production, or vitrification of high-level waste.
- The need for new energy sources has been in the news frequently. Explain why Plant Vogtle was a vital step in producing clean energy in our region and what the future for clean energy production looks like in the United States. Discussion can include small modular reactors, the reopening of construction at V.C. Summer, AI and data center energy needs in the future, etc.
- Combining math, science, medicine and the latest technologies, nuclear medicine technology continues to thrive at the forefront of clinical medicine. Nuclear medicine technologists are qualified to perform nuclear medicine procedures by education, licensure, certification, and continuing education. Explain why a nuclear medicine technologist is a vital part of our current health care system, what their role is, and how one can join this profession.
The effort involves researching a topic and preparing an essay on the subject. CNTA has books and other reference materials that may be of help to student applicants. Outside sources are welcome, but must be cited appropriately.
The competition is judged by volunteer members of CNTA.
2025 Winners and Essays
$1,000 Winners
- Jordan Boyle, Lake City High School, for “The Role of Nuclear Deterrence in Ensuring United States Security”
- Wyatt Carnes, Aiken Scholars Academy, for “Analysis of Various Nuclear Technologies in the Medical Industry”
- Blake Sommers, Greenbriar High School, for “Nuclear Radioisotopes: A Medical Perspective”
$750 Winner
- • Tripp Moyer, Midland Valley High School, for “Deterrence Defined: US Security in the Modern Era”
- Rhianna Waltower, Hephzibah High School, for “Beyond the Reactor: Spent Fuel Management”
$500 Winners
- Jaxon Green, Academy of Richmond County, for “Nuclear Power: Balancing Innovation and Responsibility for Tomorrow’s Energy Needs”
- Coralyn Cairns, Lakeside High School, for “Nuclear Deterrence and Its Role in Modern Day America”
- Megan Arnold, North Augusta High School, for “Spent Nuclear Fuel”