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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.
Executive Session|Panel|Sponsored by Executive Track
Wednesday, December 1, 2021|4:20–5:45PM EST |International Ballroom East
Session Chair:
Marty Plys (FAI)
Student Assistant:
Erika Smith
This panel discussion will focus on advanced technologies for Fukushima decontamination and decommissioning. Experts will describe status of the site and technology being developed and deployed to for characterization, decontamination for dose reduction, debris retrieval, and debris processing. We anticipate that lessons learned will be applicable to routine maintenance and D&D of reactors in general.
Mitch Farmer
ANL
Damian Peko
USDOE
Joy Rempe
Rempe & Assoc.
Lake Barrett
Consultant
Shiyna Mizokami
Tokyo Electric Power Co. Holdings
Toyoaki Yamauchi
IRID
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