WANO Global Young Generation Forum: Connecting Globally with Like-Minded Nuclear Professionals ✈️

Exploring Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates’ impressive landmarks such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque with its stunning architectural marvel to the majestic palace of Qasr Al Watan providing deep insight into the rich heritage and governance, thrilling session of dune bashing, camel riding like the Bedouins, to an evening desert safari sounds super amazing, once in a lifetime opportunity … right!?! Nothing would top this!

Well … let’s add where (7) selected NAYGN members representing the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) Atlanta Centre networked, innovated, and connected in-person with over 50 representatives from 23 different countries and areas from the WANO Global Young Generation (YG) Forum at the 17^th WANO Biennial General Meeting, Fusing Futures: Sustainable Performance in the Tech and Net Zero Era, from September 28-30 at Abu Dhabi.

NAYGN got to learn about the WANO YG Global brand refresh (just like us!), Regional Centres (Tokyo, Moscow, Atlanta, and Paris) YG activities, and how we can collaborate, stimulate innovation, and continue to foster positive relationships with other like-minded organizations to support our mission. On top of networking with WANO Global YG members, NAYGN also had the opportunity to network with over 400 delegates from 35 countries and sit in the WANO BGM sessions, where an array of expert speakers and panelists from industries shared their insights, experiences, and thoughts on how we can address common challenges, maximize performance, and shape a positive future for the global nuclear industry.

A key topic was common through the WANO BGM sessions … supporting our young professional career development. Like we have seen in our 2024 NAYGN Career Report, it is paramount to inspire, grow, support, and develop our young generation to keep the nuclear industry thriving to meet the world’s carbon free strategy.

Dr. Naoki Chigusa, WANO Chief Executive Officer concluded the BGM with this statement that resonated with our NAYGN members, “As we move forward, let us seize this moment to use our collective knowledge and experience, ignite our passion for excellence, and inspire a future where safety and reliability strengthen the foundation of our industry’s success.”

NAYGN will be taking initiatives to collaborate with our WANO Global YG members across the globe to further empower our young professionals because we are the FUTURE of NUCLEAR!

Hear the experiences from our first-time WANO BGM NAYGN members had to say about this opportunity!

"This year marked my first time participating in the WANO BGM, and I had the incredible honor of representing the Atlanta Centre Young Generation. Initially, I was quite nervous, fearing that my limited experience in the industry and my background in communications, rather than technical fields, would hinder my ability to contribute meaningfully to the discussions. However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that I could actively participate and add valuable insights to the sessions and conversations. I felt truly valued and heard, while also being encouraged to deepen my understanding of the global nuclear industry. This experience has been profoundly rewarding, and I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to attend!”
-Sara Herman, Southern Nuclear Company Corporate-Birmingham Chapter Vice-President

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"I am incredibly grateful to have been given the opportunity to represent Constellation and the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) Atlanta Center as a young generation delegate at the 2024 Biennial General Meeting … in the UAE!

It was inspiring to hear about WANO’s mission, vision, and the nuclear industry’s progress towards WANO’s 2030 goals. Getting to know and learn from the leaders of the Nuclear Industry around the world was truly a pleasure and I am glad to experience the industry’s commitment to developing the talents of the young generation.

A very big thank you to Frank Sturniolo for supporting me in this opportunity, for being a mentor and a role model, and for always advocating for the young generation at Constellation!"
-Anna Quinn, Executive Council Past Chair - Constellation West

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