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Conference Spotlight
2026 Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX)
August 24–27, 2026
Dallas, TX|Hilton Anatole
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Jul 2026
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2026
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Nuclear Science and Engineering
September 2026
Nuclear Technology
August 2026
Fusion Science and Technology
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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.
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TerraPower is a leading nuclear innovation company that strives to solve the world’s toughest problems in energy, climate and human health through nuclear energy and science. It is an established incubator and developer of ideas and technologies that offer energy independence, environmental sustainability, medical advancement and other cutting-edge opportunities. Behind each of its innovations, technologies and programs, TerraPower’s talented and growing team brings together diverse perspectives to achieve the original impetus defined when Bill Gates and a group of like-minded visionaries founded the company: the private sector needed to take action in developing advanced nuclear answers for pressing global needs. Learn more about TerraPower and career opportunities to help build the clean energy future at https://terrapower.com/.
