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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.
March 31, 2026|3:30–4:30PM (4:30–5:30PM EDT)
Available to All Users
ANS presents a panel discussion featuring some of the most prominent figures in the nuclear industry's push to criticality.
A renewed fervor around the testing and piloting of new nuclear technologies has been sweeping the nation and fresh as well as experienced developers are stepping up to the challenges. As many of these companies race to hit ambitious testing goals, such as the President's July 4, 2026 criticality goal, experiments and demonstrations only continue to accelerate. Companies, alongside partners in the federal government, are hoping these testing activities can lead to true commercial success in the coming years, but certainly requires important lab, testing, and scaling activities today.
Panelists
Moderator
