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Conference Spotlight
2026 Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX)
August 24–27, 2026
Dallas, TX|Hilton Anatole
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The human factor in licensing and operating the next generation of nuclear plants
As human factors specialists working at the intersection of human performance and nuclear operations, we are witnessing one of the nuclear sector’s most significant transitions in decades. The emergence of small modular reactors, microreactors, and other advanced designs is reshaping the industry’s landscape. Digital instrumentation and controls, passive safety systems, and increased automation are creating opportunities for greater safety margins and more flexible operation. These same features also fundamentally redefine what it means to “operate” a nuclear plant. Interactions among human roles, automation, and passive systems shape how people maintain awareness, exercise judgment, and intervene when necessary. These developments affect both operational realities and the regulatory foundations on which nuclear safety is built.
VIEW RECIPIENTSSUBMIT NOMINATION
Nomination Deadline
March 1
Presented at the
Annual Conference
The Don Miller Award recognizes outstanding engineering, research and development, licensing or project achievements in the fields of nuclear instrumentation, control and human-machine interface technology from around the world, as exemplified by Don Miller.
The award is given to an individual or team who has made recognized contributions to the advancement of one or both of the fields of nuclear instrumentation and control or human- machine interface through individual or combined activities.
The award consists of an engraved plaque to be presented at the ANS Annual Conference. There is no monetary award. The plaque is to be paid for by the ANS HFICD. No funding for travel reimbursement or meeting attendance is anticipated.
This award was established by the ANS Human Factors, Instrumentation & Control Division (HFICD) in 2009. It is named after Dr. Don W. Miller, Professor and Distinguished Program Chair at the Ohio State University Nuclear Engineering Program, a prior member of the Advisory Committee on Reactor Safeguards, and past ANS President.
The award recipients are selected by consensus of the HFICD executive committee from the pool of proposed and eligible candidates.
Nominations must include the completed nomination form accompanied by the following supporting documents:
View Award