Panel Reporter Notes

Introduction of participants and overview of session expectations.
Participants were asked to introduce themselves, share affiliations, and discuss relevant backgrounds.

Sarah Lou: Postdoc at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL).
- Not from the US; completed PhD and education in the UK.
Braden Gomer: Associate Professor at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU).
Janette: 25 years old, civil engineer from Uganda, lived in South Africa.
- Grew up in a multicultural setting.
- Developed passion for civil engineering; pursued a master's at Cranfield University focusing on nuclear energy due to electricity concerns in South Africa.
- Encouraged to explore scholarships and networks (IEA Scholarship for women under 35).
- Emphasizes the importance of mentorship and networking.
Another Panelist: Focus on past experiences in research related to cytokine extraction and companion diagnostics in nuclear science.

Background in engineering; interest in water and wastewater management sparked
Work experience and shift towards nuclear energy due to a crisis in South Africa (electricity issues).
Affiliation with Cranfield University for master's program.
- Engaged in thesis work on flocculation in wastewater with Severnfield.

Networking: Engage with different professionals in uncomfortable environments.
Mentorship: Value your current supervisors or mentors for guidance toward opportunities.
Representation: Importance of diversifying representative roles in engineering sectors.
Financial Considerations: Seek internships and funding opportunities as entry points into the field.
Personal Path: Avoid following the same exact paths as others; find individualized pathways.

Career Challenges: Discuss difficulties related to health, education, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Importance of supportive mentors during challenging times.
- Focus on resilience and remaining open to personal choices and career paths.
Philosophy of Engagement: Importance of community feedback and creating an inclusive environment.
Technical Expertise: Development of microfluidic systems and radionuclide transport modeling as part of their work at LANL.

Sami Nama: Research Scientist at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland; also pursuing a PhD.
Focus on small and reactive waste management, transport modeling, and waste management strategies in Finland.

Early education experiences, support from family, and generous public education systems in Finland.
Opportunities to engage in significant projects early in career.

Overview of nuclear engineering programs in the US: comparing established programs (e.g., Texas A & M, University of Missouri) to burgeoning programs (e.g., Tennessee Tech and Adeline Christian University).

Curriculum modernizations to incorporate advanced technologies and prepare students for clean energy roles.
Increased public interest in nuclear energy as a clean energy source.
- Discussion of the job market and career prospects for students entering the industry.
Expansion of nuclear research reactors across universities.

Discussion on the hiring of faculty and building new infrastructure.
Importance of public support and expanding academic enrollment in nuclear studies.
Challenges faced in funding but notable resilience in nuclear research sectors during financial shifts.

Importance of professional networks in enhancing opportunities for students and young professionals.
Institutions like the American Nuclear Society and NAYGM offering tailored workshops and mentorship opportunities.

Reflection on personal journeys in nuclear fields; calls for fostering a supportive culture for new entrants.
An emphasis on mentorship, seeking diverse experiences, and advocating for support systems in educational and professional environments.