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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|Technology Research and Development
Wednesday, April 29, 2026|2:00–3:20PM EDT|Room 305
This panel will discuss supporting technologies that do not typically receive much attention (e.g., power conversion controllers, reactor instrumentation and control, radiation modeling and shielding, and in-space assembly of modular radiators for NEP). Each of these technology areas is a critical enabler of future space nuclear systems. The panel will discuss current efforts and identified gaps requiring more investigation for development.
N. Dianne Ezell
Idaho National Laboratory
Tyler Steiner
NASA GRC
Sal Oriti
NASA-GRC
Jarvis Caffrey
NASA - MSFC
Amanda Stark