The implementation of the Vertical Education Enhancement model in the Nuclear Education and Research Vertical Enhancement program demonstrated its power in enhancing STEM education and research. Within a three-year period, the Nuclear Education and Research Vertical Enhancement program successfully 1) enabled two engineering technology degree programs to get full ABET accreditation; 2) infused nuclear contents into existing STEM courses; 3) led to the development and addition of nuclear systems concentrations to Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering degree programs; 4) established a nuclear engineering and radiological science laboratory;
5) tripled external funding for research and education; 6) enhanced faculty development; and 7) imparted students with knowledge and practical experience that enabled them to join a technology-savvy and skilled workforce in nuclear and other related STEM fields. The VEE model also served as a powerful tool for integrating research into the curriculum and teaching.