McMaster students had an opportunity to connect with top companies and professionals in the nuclear industry at the second annual Nuclear Now careers event, held in the middle of Nuclear Science Week (Oct. 21-25).

From clean energy and environmental science to medical isotope research and radiation protection, careers in the nuclear industry span a diverse range of sectors, says Erica Dao, Manager of Nuclear Outreach and Education.

“We were thrilled to welcome back McMaster grads who have accomplished incredible things in nuclear,” Dao says.

“They had so many helpful insights and inspiration to share with students who are considering embarking on careers in the field — and students’ enthusiasm for nuclear science speaks volumes about the industry’s future.”

The event featured a panel discussion with four McMaster alumni who followed their passion for nuclear science to varied careers in the industry – from radiopharmaceutical project management to health physics to reactor operations.

Panelist Fabricia Pineiro Tresierra, the vice-president of Canada Operating Plant Services at Westinghouse Electric Company, was first inspired to pursue a career in nuclear when she visited the McMaster Nuclear Reactor as an engineering physics undergrad.

“There are opportunities for everyone in nuclear,” Pineiro Tresierra said. “Say yes to every opportunity you can, because it’s important to get outside of your comfort zone. If you don’t, you’re not learning nearly as much as you could.”

Students visited information booths hosted by event sponsors Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, Laurentis Energy Partners, Westinghouse and AECON Nuclear and other companies, all actively seeking co-op and new graduate hires.

“It was great to get to know this industry more. I didn’t realize how much it’s growing and the different kinds of opportunities that are out there,” said Julia Balkwill, a biomedical and mechatronics engineering student who is interested in nuclear engineering and came to the event to learn more about the field.

“It was especially encouraging to hear from the panelists about the wide range of jobs that are available for students when they graduate,” she said.

According to a recent study commissioned by the Canadian Nuclear Association, Canada’s nuclear industry boasts a workforce of 89,000 — a 17 per cent increase since 2019. And 44 per cent of these jobs are held by people ages 40 or younger.

Students will play a major role in the nuclear industry’s evolving future, especially as Canada and the world urgently seek reliable clean energy solutions, said John Preston, strategic advisor to the vice-president, Research, on McMaster’s Nuclear Enterprise.

“The nuclear industry is evolving rapidly, as is the demand for skilled nuclear workers,” Preston said.

“McMaster students have unique access to world-class research infrastructure, experiential learning programs and connections to industry.”

“We’re thrilled to be able to provide these kinds of opportunities in collaboration with our industry partners to help ensure tomorrow’s nuclear leaders are positioned for success.”