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Conference Spotlight
2026 ANS Annual Conference
May 31–June 3, 2026
Denver, CO|Sheraton Denver
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60 Years of U: Perspectives on resources, demand, and the evolving role of nuclear energy
Recent years have seen growing global interest in nuclear energy and rising confidence in the sector. For the first time since the early 2000s, there is renewed optimism about the industry’s future. This change is driven by several major factors: geopolitical developments that highlight the need for secure energy supplies, a stronger focus on resilient energy systems, national commitments to decarbonization, and rising demand for clean and reliable electricity.
Technical Session|Panel|Panels
Tuesday, October 8, 2024|3:15–5:00PM MDT|Room 3
Session Chair:
Mackenzie L. Gorham (Idaho State)
Session Organizer:
In response to a growing need for Engineering Technicians in the energy sector, the College of Technology at Idaho State University has established the Energy Systems Technology and Education Center (ESTEC) on the Idaho State University campus in Pocatello, Idaho. ESTEC offers one Basic Technical Certificate, two Intermediate Technical Certificate, and six Associate of Applied Science degrees. ESTEC provides a unique approach to educating students by providing the specific knowledge and skills needed in energy production. The skills requirements have been developed in partnership with energy utilities and vendors to assure that program graduates enter the workforce with the precise skills required by the energy industry in a broad spectrum of electrical, nuclear, coal, gas, renewable technologies. and allied manufacturing sectors. Students learn through traditional classroom experience as well as through extensive laboratory exercises. The panel will consist of current staff, students, graduates, and employers, and the discussion will facilitate commentary on operations and maintenance workforce needs and development, and how partnering closely with technical colleges and universities can provide a needed hiring pipeline of qualified and competent entry-level technicians.
Michael Ruddell
INL NRAD
Jimmy Spells
Idaho Environmental Coalition
Michael Stevenson
INL MFC
Kevin Smith
INL ATR
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