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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.
Technical Session|Panel|Sponsored by MCD
Monday, June 16, 2025|1:00–2:45PM CDT|Armitage
Session Chair:
Madicken Munk
Session Organizer:
Alternate Chair:
Ryan G. McClarren
Topic: Side Projects that Took Off Have you ever had a side project or idea that you wanted to take to the next level? Or wondered how a project grew the way it did? This panel will bring together members of the Mathematics and Computation community to discuss how side projects can grow into mature projects. Panelists will discuss projects they’ve seen successfully make this transition. We’ll be discussing best practices and lessons learned from their experiences with side projects. Join us to gain insights and inspiration for turning your own ideas into impactful, thriving projects. The questions we hope to discuss in panel include: • What inspired you to start working on the project? • How did you make time for your side project? • Was there an event or call that helped it “take off” to where it is now? • How did you get buy in from colleagues and collaborators? Did you feel like you were supported in your endeavors? • How would you encourage future colleagues to go about starting their own side projects? Panelists will discuss these topics in conversation with the moderator and the audience.
Will Dawn
Studsvik
Seth Johnson
ORNL
Mario Ortega
LANL
Patrick Shriwise
ANL
Nick Touran
What is Nuclear, LLC