Workforce & Nuclear Industry: Gov. McMaster and the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce named Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) the 2026 Workforce Champion Award recipient, citing student outreach, internships, and a no-cost 24-month Apprenticeship School in Aiken, Allendale and Barnwell. AI in Utilities: NextEra and Santee Cooper say AI dispatch and outage-scheduling tools are already cutting costs—NextEra reports $20M+ in savings this year, while Santee Cooper points to better forecasting to avoid expensive spot-market power. Advanced Manufacturing for Nuclear: 3D Systems and Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL) launched a CRADA to speed additive manufacturing of nuclear-grade components, including radiation-tolerant materials and cybersecurity plus workforce training. Local Housing/Real Estate: FG Communities completed a manufactured housing community acquisition in Easley, adding 59 homesites near Greenville’s job and education hubs. Food Safety: Hodo recalled 10,000+ cases of chili crisp lightly fried tofu across 29 states, including South Carolina, over possible ink contamination; FDA also expanded recalls for frozen organic blueberries and Great Value triple berry blends due to potential E. coli. Community Jobs: SC Works Midlands held a dislocated workers job fair in Winnsboro after the MLILY Mattress Company fire, matching displaced workers with 41 employers across manufacturing, healthcare, maintenance and more. Agriculture Spotlight: A South Carolina watermelon promotion initiative highlights the industry’s $18M annual impact and its role in fueling athletes and farmers.