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Conference Spotlight
2026 Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX)
August 24–27, 2026
Dallas, TX|Hilton Anatole
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Nuclear Science and Engineering
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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
Monday, July 22, 2024|3:15–5:05PM CDT|Senate A/B
Session Chair:
Ross F. Radel
Alternate Chair:
Gerald Kulcinski (University of Wisconsin-Madison)
Session Organizer:
Paul P. Wilson
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Hybrid Electrostatic/Magnetic Confinement Orbitron Fusion Reactor: Overview of Scientific Program at Avalanche Energy
3:15–3:40PM CDT
Robin Langtry (Avalanche Energy Designs)
Paper
Realta Fusion's High-Field Axisymmetric Mirror Development Program
3:40–4:05PM CDT
J. Viola (Realta Fusion), S.J. Frank (Realta Fusion), C.B. Forest (Univ. Wisconsin Madison), J.K. Anderson (Univ. Wisconsin Madison), D. Endrizzi (Realta Fusion), K. Furlong (Realta Fusion), R.W. Harvey (CompX), B. Lindley (Realta Fusion), Y.V. Petrov (CompX), O. Schmitz (Realta Fusion), A. Tran (Realta Fusion)
The Challenges and Innovative Approaches to High Electrostatic Field Sustainment in the Orbitron
4:05–4:25PM CDT
Moein Borghei (Avalanche Energy Designs), Robin Langtry (Avalanche Energy Designs)