DOE Oak Ridge Nuclear Energy manager to retire

J.T. Howell, manager of the Nuclear Energy Oak Ridge Site Office, will retire from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge Office on May 3 after 33 years of federal government service.

Howell has held his current position since 2011, responsible for advancing DOE’s nuclear energy programs in Oak Ridge; Portsmouth, Ohio; and Paducah, Ky. His responsibilities also include oversight of leases, agreements, and technology development and deployment between the DOE and the United States Enrichment Corporation to ensure a secure and viable domestic supply of enriched uranium for the United States defense purposes.

In addition, he works with the National Nuclear Security Administration on nuclear nonproliferation issues to ensure the security of uranium enrichment technologies. He is also responsible for providing cyber security support to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission via a “Work for Others” program to ensure the security of other enrichment technologies and activities under the purview of the NRC.

Howell has also served in other key management positions involving some of Oak Ridge’s most complex projects. Prior to his current position, he served as deputy manager for Nuclear Energy, Recovery Act portfolio manager, and as deputy assistant manager of Environmental Management. Howell also led the effort to develop planning documents and receiving Critical Decision 1 approval for the Integrated Facilities Disposition Project, a $9-14 billion comprehensive environmental cleanup plan for Oak Ridge. He was also instrumental in the site’s Recovery Act success by effectively planning, managing, and directing $755 million in funds for specific environmental cleanup around the Oak Ridge Reservation.

Howell’s leadership and project management expertise led to him being recognized by DOE as a member of the Senior Executive Service, a corps of executives selected for their leadership credentials. He is a graduate of the University of Alabama and holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering.

A native of Alabama, J.T. and his wife, Susan, reside in Philadelphia, Tenn., and have two sons and six grandchildren. He looks forward to farming, relaxing, and spending time with grandchildren in his retirement.