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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.
December 9, 2020|12:00–1:00PM (1:00–2:00PM EST)
ANS Members Only
ANS Members, please log in to watch this webinar.
Participate in this free members-only webinar and explore the results of recent messaging research and polling that Maslansky + Partners, a firm focused on behavioral science, linguistics, and strategic thinking, conducted for the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI). You’ll learn about tested approaches for associating nuclear energy with other carbon-free technologies and amplifying nuclear’s numerous benefits, which will include specific language to use. There will also be an opportunity for Q&A following the presentation.
PresenterNeal Cohen, NEI Senior Vice President of External Affairs
Cohen is responsible for managing the Institute’s communications, government affairs, public policy and public affairs groups. In this capacity, Cohen focuses on integrating and executing NEI’s lobbying, third party outreach, coalition building, policy development and strategic communications efforts. He also serves as President of Nuclear Matters, NEI’s grassroots coalition with over 550,000 followers. Previously, Cohen had a 30-plus year career at APCO Worldwide, a global strategic communications firm, where he served as vice-chair of APCO’s Board of Directors, President of Global Client Strategies, and Chief Operating Officer.
ModeratorMary Lou Dunzik-Gougar, ANS President
Dr. Dunzik-Gougar is Associate Dean of the College of Science and Engineering at Idaho State University. Her nuclear career spans 25 years, during which time she has performed research in various aspects of the nuclear fuel cycle, including waste form development, spent fuel pyroprocessing, spent particle fuel qualification for disposal, fuel and material development and characterization (pre- and post-irradiation), development of a waste minimization plan for a next generation nuclear reactor design, and fuel cycle modeling.
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