emPowering the Energy Transition at WiN Global

Authors: Jeanne Ruppelius, Mitzy Gastelum

You might already know most Americans and Canadians* support nuclear. But what’s the reception in Mexico?

Four NAYGN members (and two of our board) had the chance to learn all about the nuclear landscape in Mexico at this year’s WiN Global, which was hosted in Mexico City in late October 2024.

NAYGN Mexico Delegation (left to right): Brian Holman, NAYGN Board of Directors, Treasurer; Tiffany Diaz, Mitzy Gastelum; Jeanne Ruppelius, NAYGN Board of Directors, Technology Officer; Genesis Ponce, Matthew Przybylowski

Immediately upon arrival, we were greeted by a bustling city full of colorful flowers, whimsical sugar skulls, and smog?! As many visitors as there were for the conference, there were likely twice as many—if not much more—arriving early to observe Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Unfortunately, with so many cars passing through and fireworks going off, the air quality wasn’t great.

“It put into perspective for me just how dangerous bad air quality is for people’s health and how strongly every country needs to push for clean energy solutions. Nuclear technology can help clean up they city and there is no better place to start than with expanding the nuclear power plant already in their backyard.”

Genesis Ponce, NAYGN, Curtiss-Wright Chapter

Sounds like we’re going to need more clean energy—and fast! And sure enough, that was a key theme throughout the conference.

WiN Global was a great opportunity to meet nuclear professionals from diverse corners of the world, and we were reminded that our strength lies not in our sameness, but in our differences—our varied cultures, backgrounds, perspectives, and lived experiences. As we envision the future, we should ask ourselves: “What kind of world do we want to create for the generations to come? How do we provide more opportunities without harming our planet?”

This kind of introspection will help us build meaningful collaborations and deeper understandings on nuclear challenges and opportunities from all around the globe. It's going to take all of us working together to make a clean energy future a reality. To that end, the WiN Global conference, held several hands-on workshops that sharpened our communication skills and challenged us to tailor our advocacy for an international audience.

“The Mexican Nuclear Industry was very welcoming of the Young Generation. They welcomed us with open arms, and we were able to make many meaningful connections. The hospitality that was shown by our southern neighbors was greatly appreciated.”

Matthew Przybylowski, NAYGN, Mexico Engagement Committee Lead

Throughout the conference, the NAYGN Mexico delegation connected with industry professionals, universities, and other young generations in nuclear like the Asociación de Jóvenes por la Energía Nuclear en México (Youth Association for Nuclear Energy in Mexico (AJENM)). AJENM recently held a webinar with NAYGN and it was great to meet them in person!

Not only was AJENM passionate about nuclear energy, but they were also very helpful in guiding us through the busy streets of Mexico City. Thanks to the food recommendations from AJENM members, we had the opportunity to try unique local delicacies, such as escamoles (ant eggs) and traditional soups that can only be found in this remarkable city.

“As part of NAYGN, I had the unique opportunity not only to immerse myself in the vibrant culture of Mexico City, but also to engage with diverse perspectives on nuclear energy’s path toward a brighter and more sustainable future.”

Mitzy Gastelum, NAYGN, Palo Verde Young Generation in Nuclear Chapter

NAYGN speaks on a panel about workforce sustainability.

The final day of the conference wrapped with a keynote plenary titled "Building a Sustainable Clean Energy Workforce for the Future". NAYGN joined this amazing panel alongside other esteemed women: Eva Gyane, WiN Global; Morgan Packer, NEA; Hind Abdulla Saeed Alnaqbi, ENEC; and Neva Badalamente, IAEA.

Jeanne Ruppelius, NAYGN Technology Officer, shared insights from the 2024 Career Report and how these findings can strengthen the industry.

While intentional recruitment is vital, the panelists also shared the value that mentorship played in each of their successes. *Spoiler Alert!* This was also identified as a key area of importance AND satisfaction in our career report!

Jeanne Ruppelius, NAYGN, Board of Directors, Technology Officer speaks on a panel moderated by Raquel Heredia, World Nuclear Association. Panelists left to right: Eva Gyane, WiN Global; Morgan Packer, NEA; Hind Abdulla Saeed Alnaqbi, ENEC; and Neva Badalamente, IAEA (virtual panelist)

After the conference, we had the opportunity to explore more of the city through tours. Our first stop was a technical tour at the Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Nucleares (National Institute of Nuclear Research (ININ)). There, we were treated to tours of food sterilization area, research reactor, "hot lab,” and medical research area. It was incredible to see their innovative approaches to early cancer detection and treatment. Some of their research has already been put into use!

Research Reactor at ININ. Image courtesy of WiN Global Mexico.

On the second day, we embarked on a cultural tour to go see two well-known sites in Mexico: La Basilica de Guadalupe and the grand pyramids of Teotihuacán.

The Basilica de Guadalupe is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is a significant site for many Catholics.

Teotihuacán is an archeological site made up of several pyramids. Two of the most famous pyramids are known as the “Temple of the Sun” and the “Temple of the Moon.”

Teotihuacán archeological site. Image courtesy of WiN Global Mexico.

Each site we visited, gave us a deeper appreciation for the rich history and cultural heritage of Mexico.

“I really appreciated how WiN Global took a holistic approach to their conference—not only did we learn about the unique nuclear landscape in Mexico, but they also offered technical and cultural tours. Visiting ININ was a fun experience, and it really emphasized all the amazing applications of nuclear technology beyond just energy production. I especially loved visiting Teotihuacán and learning about its rich natural resources.”

Jeanne Ruppelius, NAYGN Board of Directors, Technology Officer

In the end, we not only fostered connections, but we also built lasting memories, deepened our cultural understanding, and formed friendships that will continue to enrich both our professional and personal lives for years to come.

But wait! There is still work to do! (Read: untapped opportunities) Join the NAYGN Mexico Engagement Committee and let’s continue building connections.

“WIN Global in Mexico was a resounding success. I am very thankful to have been a part of the NAYGN delegation that travelled to Mexico for this conference. This was a great opportunity for NAYGN to build and strengthen our relationships with Mexico as we move forward to truly embody our name as “NORTH AMERICAN” Young Generation in Nuclear. There are many exciting collaborations that will come out of this conference that I can’t wait to see unfold.”

Matthew Przybylowski, NAYGN, Mexico Engagement Committee

“As a young professional, it’s opportunities like these that will make an impact within our careers for years to come. I loved coming back to my peers and sharing the experience and full-on knowledge I gained. Thank you to NAYGN for creating an inclusive space where we could come together and be part of something truly extraordinary!”

Mitzy Gastelum, NAYGN, Palo Verde Young Generation in Nuclear Chapter

NetZero needs nuclear and NAYGN needs you! Join our Mexico Engagement Committee and we hope to see you in the next Mexico delegation!

* : Source: https://www.radiantenergygroup.com/reports/public-attitudes-toward-clean-energy-2023-nuclear