The 2007 NA-YGN Annual Professional Development Workshop was held in Miami, Florida on May 22-24. Representatives from NA-YGN chapters were gathered to listen to presentations from leaders in the nuclear industry. It is an opportunity which invites an exchange of ideas and a place to discuss concerns, problems, and successes with peers. Several members of the Carolina chapter attended the conference.
The agenda for the Conference was as follows:
A key note speaker, Brew Barron, first started off the conference with a motivational speech on the need for new employees and leadership in the nuclear industry. He used Williams States Lee‘s accomplishments as an example of how a good leader can greatly influence and shape the industry.
He gave a past, present and future look into where the industry is going and pointed out the fact that the industry is dependant upon the young generation to keep it going. He stressed that it is important for employees to stand up and speak out for the industry to influence the direction that we want our future to take. Also, he touched on not letting nuclear processes and bureaucracy slow you down from making change and the right direction. Be the spider using its web instead of a fly caught up in it, was the analogy given. Last, the importance to make good long term business decisions and upholding safety (personnel and nuclear) should be paramount for all decisions.
Session 1 - Beyond theCOL: Hurdles Facing New Nuclear Power Plants
This session provided suggestions for constructively advocating new nuclear plants. Topics covered included: creating a ‘balanced solution‘ platform, seeking political support, outreach within the media, developing third party support (experts and universities), providing collateral materials (brochures and Q&As), and stressing employee communication through programs such as ‘When Neighbors Ask.‘
Session 2 - Understanding the Role of Ethics in Nuclear
The Davis Besse event was cited as proof of the high standards held in nuclear safety and ethics. Key points included keeping communication lines with the NRC open and working together to ensure the health and safety of the public and plant personnel. Effective, complete, and accurate communication is essential to ensure these goals. A company‘s safety culture is reflected by the values and behavior of its leaders - everyone must work to make nuclear safety the overriding priority.
Session 3 - Working Together: Today and Tomorrow
With the increasing average age in the nuclear workforce, recruitment and retention of new employees is an important issue. Successful recruiting strategies included partnering with educational institutions, attending career fairs, corporate recruiting websites, plant tours, and internships at sites and corporate offices. Retention suggestions included mentoring programs, training opportunities, and rotational opportunities within the company.
Session 4 - Being a Change Agent
The current greenhouse gas emission issues and rising fuel prices are leading to a political and regulatory change for nuclear industry. During this change, good leadership is essential. The key elements of leadership include vision, change agency, courage of conviction, ability to inspire, trust, and follow through. At the same time, it is important not to lose sight of the possibility that conventional wisdom might be right. Be skeptical, but not cocky.
Session 5 - Project Management 101
The function of a project plan is to align stakeholders, establish a baseline for the project, and open the lines of communication. Always consider at least three alternatives, including a ‘do nothing‘ option. The most essential roles for a project manager include controlling scope change, proper communication, maintaining adequate resources and motivation, managing issues with management‘s awareness, recovering buffer, and removing constraints.
Session 7 - Local Chapter Public Information and Advocacy Highlights
Lessons learned from NA-GYN involvement in nuclear advocacy included anti-nuclear presenters use the audience‘s emotion, attendees often have already formed an opinion, and facts will prevail over unfounded theories. It is important to have a clear understanding of the nuclear industry and be zealous, calm, and respectful.
