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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|Sponsored by THD
Tuesday, November 17, 2020|2:40–4:20PM EST
Session Chair:
Lane B. Carasik
Session Organizer:
Alternate Chair:
Wade R. Marcum
Staff Producer:
Erica McGowan (American Nuclear Society)
This Education in Thermal Hydraulics Panel is the second in a series of panels focused on understanding and improving existing practices within thermal hydraulics related education, best practices, and tactical methods that may be feasible to deploy as a nuclear community to serve as resources for all ANS members. The goal of this second educational in thermal hydraulics panel is to reflect on the outcomes of the first which resulted in the understanding that a suite of resources should be developed for the community. The panel will also involve discussions on progress made on these efforts while providing discussion and dialogue through examples of success.
Wade Marcum
Oregon State University
Sama Leon
OECD Nuclear Energy Agency
Elia Merzari
Penn State
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