Nuclear Power Education and Training Key Terms

Advance in the energy industry with some nuclear power education and training key terms

By John Williams, Business Writing and Research

The single most important issue facing this otherwise extremely clean energy generation source is what to do with the waste, which is why the public has been so loathe to turn to nuclear energy as a power source. However, given the environmental changes, the cost of fossil fuels and the global growth in energy demand, both supporters and (former) detractors are looking closely at nuclear power. Europe, particularly France, currently leads in technology, but there can be a bright future for someone looking to enter or advance in the field. Familiarize yourself with some of the key terms on nuclear power education and training to jumpstart your preparation for a career in nuclear power.

Generic Fundamentals Examination (GFE)

The first of a series of reactor operator licensing exams administered by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), the Generic Fundamentals Examination (GFE) covers three fundamental areas of nuclear power plants: components, reactor theory, and thermodynamics.
Try: The NRC administers the GFE quarterly.

Non-licensed operator

A non-licensed operator assists licensed reactor operators and senior reactor operators in day-to-day operations of a nuclear plant.
Try: Bismarck State College offers students the option of an Associates degree or a Program Certificate in Nuclear Power Technology to get a head start in becoming a non-licensed operator.

Health physics

Health physics involves protecting people from radiation exposure, as well as monitoring and reporting any exposure that occurs and monitoring the person for health effects.
Try: Bloomsburg University in Pennsylvania offers a BS program in health physics.

Chemistry technician

Chemistry technicians focus on the plant chemistry and radioactivity levels, measuring and recording levels to ensure they stay within safe operating levels.
Try: American Technologies (ATI) offers a Nuclear Power Technology Training program covering skills needed for chemistry technicians.

Maintenance or mechanical technician

Maintenance or mechanical technicians keep the nuclear power plants' mechanical and structural systems running smoothly and reliably.
Try: The Nuclear Energy Institute outlines the skill set and education requirements to start out as a mechanical technician.

Radwaste

Shorthand for radioactive waste, a sizable portion of nuclear power plant management involves dealing with radwaste, from handling and processing to storage and disposal. Both commercial and safety issues must be weighed throughout the process, and a number of regulations must be followed.
Try: Radwaste.org provides links to find education or training on specific aspects of radwaste.