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New advisory board to help shape NRE program's future

The University of Texas at Austin's Nuclear and Radiation Engineering (NRE) Program held its inaugural Advisory Board meeting in April during UT Energy Week.

Chaired by Dale Klein, former chairman of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and UT professor emeritus, the board brings together leaders from national laboratories, industry, government agencies and the University to help guide the continued growth and strategic direction of the NRE program. The board will meet annually to advise on future priorities and provide an outside perspective on workforce needs, industry trends, research opportunities and educational priorities in the growing nuclear sector.

“UT's NRE program has significant impact and influence across the nuclear sector, and it's punching above its weight. NRE faculty have attracted exceptional students who are at the forefront of the nuclear renaissance,” said Klein. “The board will help ensure the program responds to industry and research needs, grows with intention, and continues to prepare the next generation of nuclear leaders.”

During the meeting, board members received updates on the program's recent successes and discussed opportunities to build on its accomplishments. They recommended developing learning opportunities for non-nuclear engineering students and focusing on an interdisciplinary approach to nuclear engineering, equipping students with skills in construction, project management, national security and other engineering disciplines.

“Continued growth requires additional capacity,” said Derek Haas, NRE area coordinator and associate professor at UT Austin's Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering. “We're pursuing opportunities to expand our faculty and facilities so we're equipped to support new research and educational opportunities across the nuclear sector.”

NRE Advisory Board Members