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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.
NPIC&HMIT 2021 Plenary SPeaker
Mr. Benner joined the NRC in 1990 as an inspector in Region I before transferring to headquarters where he held progressively responsible positions in the Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation (NRR), the Office of Nuclear Security and Incident Response, and the Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards including several branch chief positions. He also has worked as a technical assistant for Commissioner Greta Dicus and Chief of Staff for Commissioner Ostendorff. He served as the Deputy Division Director of the Division of Reactor Projects in Region I as part of the Senior Executive Service Candidate Development Program, and as Deputy Director in the Division of Operating Reactor Licensing in NRR before assuming his current permanent role as Director in the Division Engineering in NRR. He recently acted as NRR Deputy Office Director for Reactor Safety Programs and Corporate Support. Mr. Benner received a bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a master’s degree in environmental engineering from Johns Hopkins University.
Last modified May 5, 2021, 8:41am EDT