Academic conferences are an essential part of the lives of any industry professional, from interacting with peers to learning about the newest technologies and emerging research. And for undergraduate students such as Alina Jugan, a junior nuclear engineering major, and Pavel Simeonov, a sophomore nuclear engineering major, it was a way to get a better glimpse into the world of nuclear engineering.
At the end of May, Jugan and Simeonov traveled to Pittsburgh, Pa., to attend the 2022 International Conference on Physics of Reactors. Hosted by the American Nuclear Society (ANS), the conference gathers industry experts working in laboratories, universities and more from across the world to showcase advancements in nuclear technology and to present new concepts and knowledge.
Jugan and Simeonov first learned about the conference during an informational meeting held by the Department of Nuclear Engineering’s (NE) student chapter of ANS. Cenk Güler, manager of high energy fuel at Westinghouse Electric Company, was invited to speak with students. With his company partnering with ANS to coordinate and financially support this year’s International Conference on Physics of Reactors, in addition to being an exhibitor, he encouraged students to consider attending.
The two knew of the Engineer Your Experience (EYE) Program, which is available to College of Engineering students to fund educational experiences, as NE professors regularly encourage students to take advantage of the resource. With assistance from the EYE Program, Jugan and Simeonov together received approximately $4,500 to cover hotel and flight expenses.
Exhibitors at this year’s event included a variety of private laboratories and private companies, including Argonne National Laboratory, Constellation, Battelle Energy Alliance, LLC – Idaho National Laboratory and Ultra Safe Nuclear. Academic institutions including the University of Michigan and NC State were also present.
Across six days, Jugan and Simeonov networked with nuclear engineering professionals from all backgrounds. The conference’s theme was “Making Virtual a Reality: Advancements in Reactor Physics to Leap Forward Reactor Operation and Deployment.” With this focus, the two attended panels ranging from the use of the Virtual Environment for Reactor Applications (VERA) and improvements that could be made, to jet propulsion and the funding of space nuclear programs.
While panels offered a glimpse of research occurring across the globe, Jugan and Simeonov were excited to learn how NC State is playing an active role in the future of the industry. A panel centered on the funding of research reactors featured Ayman Hawari, NC State Distinguished Professor of Nuclear Engineering and director of the Nuclear Reactor Program, as a panel speaker.
“It was really cool to learn about NC State’s future and the larger industry, starting with getting more funding for research reactors and to advance the technology available at universities,” said Simeonov.
With the conclusion of the conference, Jugan, who is considering furthering her education beyond the bachelor’s level, felt more sure about her place in nuclear engineering.
“It really solidified it actually, after talking with so many people,” said Jugan. “I feel more confident in the path that I’m taking and confident that I can go where I want to go.”
Without assistance from the EYE Program, Jugan and Simeonov are both certain they would not have attended the conference.
Funding from the EYE Program is available to alleviate some of the financial burden for engineering students for a variety of educational experiences. These include alternative spring break trips, study abroad programs, technical certifications, professional development conferences and webinars.
Interested in how the EYE Program can support you? Learn how to apply.
