Tremendous energy is trapped
in the nucleus of a tiny atom.
Harnessing that energy is
the work of nuclear engineers.
They search for efficient ways to
capture the energy from disintegrating atoms,
or from the fusion of atoms, and put it to use.
Nuclear engineers develop a variety of
applications for nuclear energy,
including diagnosing and treating illnesses…
and in systems to power ships and spacecraft.
Many of these engineers work with
nuclear reactors,
the source of energy for power plants
to provide heat and electricity to
many homes and businesses.
The resources used in nuclear power
generate potentially dangerous radioactivity.
So nuclear engineers in power plants
develop safety practices,
and ensure that nuclear waste
is disposed of with care.
Their job doesn’t stop after designing
cutting-edge new technology—
they oversee operations and maintenance,
and issue immediate emergency shutdowns
if there are malfunctions.
The majority of nuclear engineers work full-time
for public utilities or engineering consulting firms.
They sometimes collaborate with
other kinds of engineers to improve
each other’s system designs.
A bachelor’s degree in nuclear engineering
is the typical entry-level requirement for this field
some positions require a master’s degree
or Ph.D.
Nuclear engineers carry a large responsibility
to safely manage a resource many people
have come to depend on.