The AREVA Power Systems Teaching Laboratory is one of EPIC’s many sites for hands-on learning about energy.
‘DELIVERING TALENT’ EPIC CULTIVATES ENGINEERING WORKFORCE, FOCUSES ON SUSTAINABLE ENERGY FUTURE When UNC Charlotte’s Energy Production and Infrastructure Center (EPIC) opened its new building in late 2012, its story of economic development was front and center. “EPIC is a stunning example of UNC Charlotte’s responsiveness to the workforce development needs of a key industry that helps to drive our regional economy,” said Charlotte Chamber President Bob Morgan. “EPIC THRIVE | CLAIM: ECONOMIC
is delivering talent for the energy sector jobs of today and tomorrow.” Begun in 2008, EPIC’s role is to develop engineers and perform research to benefit the energy industry. The local region is home to more than 200 energy operations, including heavy hitters such as Charlottebased Duke Energy, Siemens Energy, AREVA and Westinghouse Electric. Those companies and 19 others have 6
contributed or pledged $17.5 million to EPIC so far. In the spring of 2013 when Parisbased AREVA announced it was moving its North American headquarters to Charlotte, CEO Mike Rencheck sported a UNC Charlotte tie at the press conference. He cited the airport and EPIC for determining the relocation. “Being part of that energy hub, with strong academic background, makes all