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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
Saturday, April 10, 2021|12:00–1:00PM EDT
Session Chair:
Ishita Trivedi
Alternate Chair:
Edward Chen (NC State Univ.)
Session Organizer:
Track Organizer:
Session Producer:
The Pitch Your Research competition (sponsored by YMG) provides students the opportunity to present their research and compete against their peers for cash prizes. Undergraduates will present any research conducted during their undergraduate career, and graduates will present research conducted while in a Master’s or PhD program. Each student will have 3 minutes to present their research with one static slide. Register by March 5, 2021 to be considered!
Prizes:
1st Place: $150 Cash + YMG Webinar for winner only
2nd Place: $100 Cash
Grading Rubric
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