What makes someone stay at the same company for decades — or even generations?
In this episode of Naked Nuclear, we sit down with Bob Duffy, Senior Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of BWX Technologies (BWXT), to explore what’s behind the company’s incredibly low attrition rate, its investment in early talent, and how it’s preparing for the next generation of nuclear professionals.
Bob shares how BWXT is going beyond traditional hiring — building weld schools in high schools, ramping up internships, offering internal growth pathways, and supporting students through scholarships and tuition reimbursement.
We also discuss how you can stand out in the hiring process and what kinds of roles are most in demand right now — from engineers to machinists to project managers. With over 700 job openings (at the time of recording) you've gotta see what's cooking at BWXT.
Apply to work at BWXT:
https://www.bwxt.com/careers
Learn more about BWXT:
https://www.bwxt.com
Learn more about Welding School in Mt. Vernon, Indiana
https://investors.bwxt.com/news-releases/news-release-details/bwxt-opens-welding-program-mount-vernon-high-school
BWXT in the News
https://investors.bwxt.com/news-events/news-releases
🎓 2025 BWXT STEM Scholarship Winners:
Haris Khan
Ella Schmutz
Neev Shah
Corine Glickstein
London Puckett
On this episode, we dive into the power of curiosity—how simple questions can spark revolutions in science, technology, and society. Inspired by a roadside observation, we explore why cultivating curiosity is critical at every level of society, from national parks to apprenticeships, and why funding the “discovery phase” of science pays off in ways we can’t always predict.
While it’s often said that monarchs avoid the Great Lakes as if skirting a long-gone mountain, this is a myth. Monarchs use sun compasses, circadian rhythms, and favorable winds to navigate—reminding us that curiosity often begins by questioning the stories we tell ourselves.
Why curiosity—not just knowledge—drives innovation
The role of safe, well-funded environments in enabling groundbreaking discoveries
How modern technology is tied to the curious minds of legendary scientists
Practical tips for fostering curiosity in your own life
Scientists who Researched their Curiosities
Lise Meitner – Her insights into nuclear fission led to carbon-free nuclear energy and medical isotope production.
Marie Curie – Her pioneering work on radioactivity laid the foundation for radiation therapy, saving millions of lives.
Enrico Fermi – His research on neutrons and chain reactions paved the way for nuclear reactors and nuclear medicine diagnostics.
How to Spark Curiosity
Notice the unfamiliar on your daily commute and learn what it is.
Pick a word you don’t know and find its meaning.
Learn something new from someone in a different generation.
You don’t have to be a math genius to change the world — just ask Veronica Annala. In this inspiring Student Spotlight, Danielle sits down with Veronica, a recent Texas A&M nuclear engineering graduate and founder of the Nuclear Advocacy Resource Organization (NARO).
Diagnosed with dyslexia and dyscalculia, Veronica shares how she built her own study systems, cried through calculus — and still emerged as a leader in the next generation of clean energy advocacy.
They unpack the birth of NARO, how a trip to Antarctica sparked her nuclear “a-ha” moment, and why Veronica is now pursuing an MBA to scale the movement even further. From grassroots posters to national policy, this conversation is about curiosity, audacity, and rewriting the narrative around who belongs in STEM.
Overcoming dyslexia and dyscalculia in engineering
The impact of great teachers and inclusive classrooms
Founding NARO and building student-led nuclear movements
Veronica’s decision to pursue an MBA for nonprofit leadership
Website: nuclearadvocacy.org
Instagram: @nuclearadvocacy
LinkedIn: NARO on LinkedIn
Thanks for tuning in. In this episode, Danielle highlights four in-demand skilled trades in the nuclear energy industry that require months to years of training instead of a doctorate. For each trade, we cover:
Commercial Diving
Specialized HAZMAT diving in irradiated environments
Historical roots, real-world challenges, and a “day in the life”
Training pathways, costs, salary ranges, and union vs. non-union options
Concrete Masonry
Building and finishing ultra-low-permeability containment structures
Apprenticeships vs. trade-school certificates
Typical project durations, pay, and professional bodies
Pipefitting
Installing high-precision coolant, steam, and service piping
NCCER’s 16-module curriculum and UA apprenticeships
Outage vs. new-build work, salary insights, and key associations
HVAC
Maintaining clean-room and safety-critical climate systems
3–5 year apprenticeships, technical diplomas, and NATE/EPA certifications
Day-to-day tasks, pay scale, and union/open-shop routes
RESOURCES
Divers Institute of Technology (World Nuclear Diving module):
https://diversinstitute.edu/world-nuclear-diving/
Pro Diver School: https://prodivertc.com
Association of Diving Contractors International (ADCI): https://www.adc-int.org/
Diver Certification Board of Canada (DCBC):https://www.divercertification.com/more-info/careers-in-diving/
American Concrete Institute (ACI): https://www.concrete.org/
International Masonry Institute (IMI): https://www.imiweb.org/
NCCER Pipefitting Craft Catalog: https://www.nccer.org/craft-catalog/pipefitting/
United Association (UA): https://ua.org/pipefitters/
American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE): https://www.aspe.org/
EPA Section 608 Certification: https://www.epa.gov/section608
North American Technician Excellence (NATE): https://www.natex.org/
HVAC Engineer Job Description: https://altea-energy.com/sheets/hvac-engineer-nuclear-energy-jobs/
After-Pop! Episode: What the Heck is a Hot Cell?
In this After-Pop! Danielle breaks down the mysterious world of nuclear hot cells—shielded enclosures that let scientists safely handle some of the most radioactive materials on Earth. From spent nuclear fuel to life-saving radiopharmaceuticals, hot cells are the unsung heroes of nuclear science and medicine.
✨ What We Cover:
What hot cells are and why they matter
How they look and operate (hello, robotic arms!)
The different types of hot cells: standard, GMP, mini cells, and mobile
The crucial role they play in nuclear fuel reprocessing, reactor safety, medical isotope production, and more
A look ahead at innovations in automation and training
🎧 Listen to our full episode with Marcellus Boykin, where we first touched on hot cells and other nuclear workforce innovations: [LINK TO EPISODE]
🔗 Learn more about hot cells:
Got questions about hot cells or other nuclear tech? leave a comment or follow us on LinkedIn
In this episode, we continue Season 2 with our second Student Spotlight, featuring Marcellus Boykin, a PhD student in nuclear engineering at Georgia Tech. Marcellus shares his journey from math major and football player to shielding sensors in hot cells at Idaho National Lab, presenting at ANS, and navigating imposter syndrome in graduate school.
Learn how he went from:
math --> mechanical engineering --> nuclear engineering
Links & Resources:
Learn more about the GEM Fellowship
Find internships at Idaho National Laboratory
Listen & Subscribe: Follow Naked Nuclear on your favorite podcast platform and stay tuned for more student spotlights, industry insights, and the future of nuclear energy.
In this episode of Naked Nuclear, Danielle sits down with Dr. Rebecca Steinman, PhD and the American Nuclear Society (ANS) to explore Nuclear 101—a hands-on, introductory course designed not just for engineers, but for anyone curious about the nuclear energy industry.
Whether you're a welder, museum curator, communicator, or career changer, this episode reveals why now is the perfect time to step into nuclear. We also explore ANS's broader efforts in workforce development, including the Certified Nuclear Professional (CNP) certificate.
The Nuclear 101 course was created to make the industry more accessible and train newcomers beyond traditional four-year degrees.
Course attendees have included museum staff, communicators, welders, and logistics professionals—proving the nuclear workforce is broader than you might expect.
ANS is building out online versions of Nuclear 101 and future offerings like “Nuclear 102” and “Radiation Protection Basics.”
The Certified Nuclear Professional (CNP) certificate is a new credential for professionals without nuclear degrees to showcase their understanding of the field.
All of these programs were developed by volunteers across the industry—from utility experts to regulatory professionals and early-career engineers.
Helpful links:
🔗 Nuclear 101 Course Info & Registration
https://www.ans.org/nuclear101/
🔗 Certified Nuclear Professional (CNP) Certificate Program
https://www.ans.org/credentialing/cnp/
🔗 ANS Education & Training Portal
https://www.ans.org/education/
🔗 ANS Annual Conference (Chicago, June 15–19, 2025)
https://www.ans.org/meetings/
Loved the episode? ❤️
Rate the show, leave a review, subscribe to Naked Nuclear, and share this episode with someone curious about the nuclear field.
👀 Follow us @NakedNuclear for upcoming episode drops and behind-the-scenes content.
In this After-Pop!, host Danielle explores the rise of commercial nuclear propulsion and how companies like CORE Power are reimagining the future of maritime shipping. Unlike military nuclear propulsion systems, these next-gen commercial systems are designed to be safe, scalable, and fully integrated with international safeguards.
This episode covers:
Resources and Further Reading
Nuclear-powered cargo ships might sound like science fiction—but CORE Power is making them a science reality. In this episode of Naked Nuclear, Danielle sits down with Tobi Menzies and Dr. Rory Megginson from CORE Power to explore how molten chloride fast reactors (MCFRs) and floating nuclear power plants (FNPPs) could transform global shipping.
We dive into the engineering, the policy, the people—and the programs—needed to build a clean maritime future. From international emissions policy to student research programs to training industry professionals, CORE Power isn’t just designing reactors. They’re designing the entire ecosystem.
00:00 – Introduction: From Steam to Salt Reactors
03:10 – Why Nuclear Shipping? Global Trade and Climate Math
08:30 – What Is a Molten Chloride Fast Reactor (MCFR)?
15:00 – Floating Nuclear Power Plants (FNPPs) Explained
18:20 – Lava Lamps and Fast Neutrons: MCFR Recap
19:30 – Why Shipping Needs a Nuclear Upgrade
23:00 – The Academic Resource Program: Supporting Student Research
26:10 – Internships and Entry Paths into Nuclear Maritime Careers
28:20 – The Convoy Program: Training the Industry Itself
34:30 – From Shipowners to Port Authorities: Who Needs to Learn?
39:00 – CORE Power’s Vision for 2040 and Beyond
42:00 – How to Get Involved with CORE Power
CORE Power website:
Academic Resource Program info:
https://www.corepower.energy/academic-resources
Convoy Corporate Training Program: https://www.corepower.energy/convoy
Nuclear Shipping & FNPP Overview: https://www.corepower.energy/maritime-applications/nuclear-propulsion
📬 Sign up for CORE Power’s newsletter: https://www.corepower.energy/contact
🔗 Resources & Links:
IMO 2023 Strategy on Greenhouse Gas Reductions:
https://www.imo.org/en/OurWork/Environment/Pages/2023-IMO-Strategy-on-Reduction-of-GHG-Emissions-from-Ships.aspx
NEMO Website:
https://www.nemo.ngo/mission
Some Light Reading on Nuclear Powered Ships:
https://world-nuclear.org/information-library/non-power-nuclear-applications/transport/nuclear-powered-ships
In this episode, we dive into the world of scholarships, grants, and fellowships available for students at various academic levels and fields, particularly within the nuclear sector, STEM, and the energy world.
We dispel the myth that scholarships are only for top high school students, revealing opportunities for diverse groups including veterans, career changers, and students pursuing trade and two-year degrees.
There's practical advice on how to successfully apply for these scholarships, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, organization, and broad application strategies.
A complete list of all of the scholarships and opportunities can be found on our blog at nakednuclear.com
In this After-Pop, Danielle breaks down Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) — a precision cancer treatment that uses nuclear science to selectively target tumors while sparing healthy tissue.
You’ll learn:
– What boron is and how it works inside cancer cells
– How neutron beams are made (yes, actual beams of neutrons!)
– What “epithermal neutrons” are and why they matter
– Who could benefit from BNCT and why it’s gaining traction again
– How newer technologies are making BNCT more accessible worldwide
Whether you're a curious student, a medical science nerd, or just someone who loves smart bombs for tumors, this one’s for you.
Key Takeaways:
--BNCT is a two-part therapy using boron and neutron beams to destroy cancer cells with incredible precision.
--Epithermal neutrons are ideal for this process because they penetrate tissue effectively but still slow down enough to interact with boron.
--The particles created from the boron-neutron reaction only travel about the width of a single cell — keeping the damage ultra-local.
--BNCT is gaining renewed interest due to better boron delivery agents and compact accelerator-based neutron sources.
🔹 It’s especially promising for hard-to-treat cancers like glioblastomas, melanomas, and head and neck tumors.
Want to go deeper? Here are the sources referenced in this episode:
Barth RF, Mi P, Yang W. (2018). Boron neutron capture therapy of cancer: current status and future prospects. Journal of Clinical Oncology and Cancer Research. PMC article
IAEA (2020). Current Status of Neutron Capture Therapy. IAEA Human Health Series. IAEA PDF
Miyatake S, et al. (2021). Boron neutron capture therapy: Clinical experiences and future challenges. Frontiers in Oncology. Frontiers article
What do candlelit homework, career pivots, and global nuclear leadership have in common? Dr. Fiona Rayment.
In this episode, Danielle speaks with internationally respected nuclear chemist and engineer Dr. Fiona Rayment about her early experiences with energy insecurity, her path through a diverse and powerful career, and the future of workforce development in the nuclear industry.
Together they explore:
– Why your first role doesn't have to be your forever one
– How to tell when you've lost your spark (and how to get it back)
– The surprising variety of roles across the nuclear sector
– What “Destination Nuclear” is doing to bust old stereotypes
– Why gender diversity isn’t just a nice-to-have — it’s critical
– Regulatory innovation and how to accelerate new technologies responsibly
This episode is packed with real-world insights for anyone navigating their own career journey, mentoring others, or building tomorrow’s energy workforce.
Resources & Links:
🔗 Destination Nuclear → https://www.destinationnuclear.com
🔗 Nuclear Skills Delivery Group (NSDG) → https://nuclearskillsdeliverygroup.com
🔗 Learn more about Dr. Fiona Rayment → https://nuclearinst.com/dr-fiona-rayment-obe
Wanna learn more about historical women in science?
https://obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/women-in-stem
Relearning Science Vs. Plucking Eyebrows: Unpacking Public Perceptions of STEMIn this episode of Naked Nuclear, host Danielle explores the surprising responses to a viral TikTok 'Would You Rather' question comparing re-taking science classes with plucking eyebrows. Danielle delves into why science education can be inspiring for some and traumatic for others. Discussing research and personal anecdotes, she highlights the challenges faced by educators and the systemic issues within STEM education. The episode advocates for creating engaging and enjoyable science learning experiences, utilizing modern media tools, and fostering curiosity to mend the public's relationship with science, crucial for future technological and environmental advancements.00:00 Introduction and Viral TikTok Question01:13 The Emotional Impact of Science Education03:47 Personal Experiences with Science Teachers05:28 Making Science Enjoyable and Accessible07:38 Innovative Tools and Media in Science Education08:35 Rebuilding Trust in Science10:49 Conclusion and Call to Action
In this student spotlight featuring Sarah Cole, a nuclear fuels researcher, we explore her academic journey from high school during COVID-19 to becoming a senior at Boise State University.
Sarah discusses her experiences with internships, nuclear materials research, and building a strong network within the nuclear industry.
She offers valuable advice on applying for scholarships, securing letters of recommendation, and making the most of your undergraduate years. Tune in to learn how Sarah successfully funded her education and her plans for a future in nuclear engineering.
📍 Episode Summary:
In this episode of Naked Nuclear, host Danielle Allen sits down with Kelli Davis, Program Director of the Nuclear Technology Program at Cape Fear Community College. From her start as a nuclear chemist to becoming an advocate for building the next generation of nuclear workers, Kelli shares her inspiring career path, insights into nuclear maintenance training, and why this career is more than just a job—it's a lifestyle.
💡 What You’ll Learn:
The unique journey Kelli took from chemistry to nuclear education
What Cape Fear’s Nuclear Maintenance Technician program includes
Why behaviors and coachability matter more than technical background
How the industry is evolving with small modular reactors and a growing need for workforce development
Real talk about union vs. non-union plants, upward mobility, and career satisfaction in nuclear
👩🏫 Who This Is For:
High school grads and career changers interested in hands-on work
Curious minds exploring pathways into the nuclear industry
Families, advisors, and educators helping students find purposeful careers
🛠️ Classes Offered at Cape Fear:
Welding, reactor theory, hydraulics & pneumatics, non-destructive testing, primary systems, and more
🌍 Kelli’s Big Message: “You don’t need to grow up wanting to be a nuclear worker to become one. You just need the right mindset, a little mechanical aptitude, and a willingness to learn.”
📬 Connect with Kelli:
Learn more at Cape Fear Community College
Email: kndavis245@mail.cfcc.edu
💬 Have a question or want to suggest a topic?
Email Danielle at danielle@nakednuclear.com
🎧 Subscribe, rate, and stay curious.
Season 2 of Naked Nuclear is your inside look at nuclear education—from trade schools to industry. Whether you're thinking about your future or helping someone else shape theirs, we’ve got you covered.
Have you ever met a legend? In this final episode of our Women’s History Month series, Danielle sits down with Lisa Marshall, President of the American Nuclear Society (ANS) and longtime Director of Outreach and Engagement for NC State’s Department of Nuclear Engineering.
For over two decades, Lisa has been a tireless champion for students, a trailblazer in outreach and retention strategies, and a visionary leader within the nuclear space.
From building one of the nation’s leading outreach programs from scratch to her presidency at ANS, Lisa shares her journey with wisdom, humility, and humor.
🔹 In this episode, we cover:
💡 Quote to remember:
"How dare you not give your talents to an industry that has such an impact on society—not only within the United States, but internationally." — Lisa Marshall
🧠 Perfect for:
Aspiring nuclear engineers, students navigating STEM fields, educators passionate about retention, or anyone curious about the human side of nuclear energy.
🔗 Links & Resources:
✨ Stay tuned for Season Two, where we dive deep into nuclear education, career pathways, and how YOU can transition into the industry.
In this special Women's History Month spotlight, we sit down with Rachel Love, a seasoned project manager in the nuclear industry, to explore the invaluable skills of leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability. Rachel shares her unique career journey from pre-law to nuclear engineering, the challenges of high-pressure environments, and how leadership rooted in empathy can drive successful projects.
From navigating midnight crisis calls to ensuring critical fuel equipment meets stringent safety standards, Rachel's experience offers a compelling look into what it takes to manage teams and projects in an industry as complex as nuclear energy. She discusses the importance of receiving and integrating feedback, the power of teamwork, and the evolving role of women in STEM fields.
Whether you're an aspiring engineer, a project manager looking for leadership insights, or someone curious about the nuclear sector, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways and career wisdom.
Episode Highlights:
(00:01:00) The parallels between great project managers and sports coaches
(00:02:30) Rachel's journey from pre-law to nuclear engineering
(00:06:45) Lessons from high-pressure work environments and handling 3 AM problem-solving calls
(00:10:00) The transition from project engineer to project manager and the unexpected emotional challenges of leadership
(00:15:30) How feedback strengthens leadership and why self-awareness is key
(00:22:00) Managing stress in the workplace and fostering a culture of collaboration
(00:26:00) Rachel’s experience as a woman in nuclear engineering and her perspective on the industry’s inclusivity
(00:28:30) Advice for women entering STEM and the importance of resilience and adaptability
(00:32:00) Rapid-fire questions: Rachel’s dream TED Talk, futuristic city design, and career-defining moments
Key Takeaways:
Strong leadership is built on empathy, accountability, and effective problem-solving.
Feedback—both giving and receiving—is essential for growth in technical and managerial roles.
Women in nuclear engineering are thriving, and initiatives to encourage more young women into STEM are making a difference.
The nuclear industry is one of the safest and most highly regulated sectors, thanks to lessons learned from historical incidents.
The ability to adapt to high-pressure situations and navigate uncertainty is a critical skill in project management.
Connect with Us: If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend, leave a review, and subscribe to Naked Nuclear for more insightful conversations about nuclear energy and careers in the industry.
Next Up: We continue our Women's History Month series with more inspiring voices before launching Season 2: Nuclear Education! Stay tuned!
LINKED Resources:
In this special Women’s History Month episode, we dive into the world of nuclear advocacy, mentorship, and the wisdom of motherhood with Heather Hoff, Co-Founder and Vice President of Mothers for Nuclear, and Dr. Jennifer Klay, a nuclear physicist at Cal Poly and Secretary of the organization. Together, we explore how mothers, educators, and industry professionals are shaping the future of nuclear energy.
From the role of storytelling in advocacy to keeping Diablo Canyon open, to tackling the nuclear waste conversation with communities, Heather and Jennifer share their unique experiences and insights into why diversity of thought is essential in the nuclear industry.
Stay curious and join us for this inspiring conversation that challenges assumptions, celebrates scientific curiosity, and highlights the power of advocacy.
📢 Learn More & Get Involved:
🌍 Mothers for Nuclear – Explore their mission and how to get involved.
📩 Connect with Us: Follow Naked Nuclear for more insightful conversations on the future of energy.
🔔 Subscribe & Follow
Don’t miss our Women’s History Month series, featuring inspiring leaders in nuclear energy—from students to industry pioneers. Subscribe to Naked Nuclear and follow us on social media to stay updated on the latest episodes.
#NuclearEnergy #MothersForNuclear #CleanEnergy #WomenInSTEM #NakedNuclear #DiabloCanyon #EnergyAdvocacy
Join us as we spotlight women in the nuclear industry.
One of our previous episodes with Caroline Cooley showcases how she became a radiation protection technician:
My yoga teacher, the tree-hugging radiation protection technician...In this episode of Naked Nuclear, host Danielle speaks with Caroline Cooley, a tree-hugging, Prius-driving, vegetarian yoga teacher who unexpectedly found her way into the nuclear industry as a Radiation Protection Technician.
Caroline shares her journey from corporate America to working alongside her husband in the nuclear field, offering insights into the roles and responsibilities of decontamination workers and radiation protection technicians. They discuss the safety protocols, personal protective equipment used, and the exposure levels to radiation, debunking some common misconceptions about the industry.
Caroline also touches on how her background in yoga helps her remain calm and handle fear in this demanding job. This episode provides a unique look at a non-traditional career path, the evolving diversity in the nuclear industry, and the importance of stringent safety measures. Listeners will also learn about pathways into the field and the potential for travel and financial benefits.00:00 Introduction to Caroline Cooley00:27 Diving into Nuclear Reactors01:00 Getting Started in the Nuclear Industry02:14 Roles and Responsibilities of a Radiation Protection Technician03:31 Safety Measures and Equipment07:03 Radiation Exposure and Monitoring13:11 Career Path and Personal Journey17:54 Diversity and Evolution in the Nuclear Field19:46 Nuclear Safety and Environmental Impact20:51 Yoga and Mindfulness in Nuclear Work22:52 Rapid-Fire Questions and Fun Facts26:20 Final Thoughts and Conclusion
Looking for where to get started as an RP?
Cape Fear Community College Nuclear Technology
https://cfcc.edu/nuclear-technology/
Westinghouse RP Program
https://westinghousenuclear.com/media/zhdbuk4m/how-to-become-an-rp-technician-2024.pdf
https://westinghousenuclear.com/operating-plants/outage-services/rp-alara/radiation-protection-training/
Wanna learn more about radiation levels?
Radiation Levels:
https://www.epa.gov/radiation/radiation-sources-and-doses
https://www.energy.gov/ne/articles/5-radioactive-products-we-use-every-day
Sober Spaces at Jam Band Concerts
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/arts/looking-for-sober-friends-at-a-concert-find-the-deadheads-with-a-yellow-balloon
Revealing the True Role of Landmen in the Energy Sector
In this episode, we take a closer look at the essential role of landmen in the energy industry, debunking Hollywood stereotypes and exploring their function as intermediaries between energy companies and landowners. Veteran landman Doug Sandridge, with 49 years of experience, shares insights on how their work extends beyond oil and gas to include nuclear energy and renewables.
Discussion covers the ethical aspects of land usage, fair negotiations with indigenous communities, and how the expertise of landmen could be pivotal in the future of energy projects.
00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview
00:56 Understanding the Role of a Landman
01:33 Landmen in the Energy Sector
02:25 Real-World Examples and Importance
03:45 Ethics and Indigenous Communities
05:35 Future of Landmen in Energy
06:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
