The person I know who is a reactor operator was really good at math, joined the Navy and got trained to operate a nuclear sub. Then in the private sector I am sure that skillset is somewhat rare, so it was easy to get a job there.

Can’t speak for them, but being poor, intelligent, and in need of steady income when you graduate High School is a very good way to end up in the Navy’s nuclear program.

Source: Was kicked out, poor, and intelligent. Ended up a submarine reactor operator.