The NEA invited 20 young professionals under the age of 30, representing 10 countries, to be part of the Young Professionals Delegation and join ministers, senior government representatives, industry leaders and experts at Roadmaps to New Nuclear 2026 on 17-18 September in Paris, France.
Nominated by their organisations, the young professionals are active in the field of nuclear energy development, as they take on more responsibilities within areas of research, engineering and policy around the world. Participation at the conference provided them with an opportunity to engage with senior decisionmakers, strengthen international collaboration and build lasting networks.
The Young Professionals Delegation during a guided tour at the EDF lab
The delegation’s programme started on 16 September 2026 with site visits to the CEA (Commissariat à l’énergie atomique et aux énergies alternatives) and the EDF (Electricité de France) lab, where they engaged in presentations by the respective directors and toured the facilities to learn more about the latest innovations in the nuclear energy field.
At the Roadmaps to New Nuclear conference, the Young Professionals Delegation had multiple occasions to contribute to the discussions and highlight the role of the youth in conversations on strengthening future nuclear energy capabilities and ensuring the readiness of necessary skill sets.
NEA Director-General William D. Magwood, IV hosts a discussion with the Young Professionals Delegation
Like in previous editions, the delegation was invited to a discussion with NEA Director-General William D. Magwood, IV, who emphasised his strong belief in engaging the youth and shed light on the challenges the nuclear industry faces today, such as acquiring qualified experts and workers. The conversation also touched on the Plan 2035 which aims to support NEA member countries with initiatives aimed at attracting more young people into careers in the nuclear field through mentorship programmes, internships, events and training opportunities.
During the meeting with Director-General Magwood, a delegate expressed what participating in the conference means to young professionals: “It is an opportunity for us to hear what discussions are actually taking place, something we rarely get invited to experience.”
Young Professionals Delegation delivers a special presentation to conference participants
This year’s programme also included a special presentation by the Young Professionals Delegation to conference participants on their experiences thus far in their careers, as well as what they see as priorities for sector growth for leaders in both government and private sector. Delegation representatives stressed the importance of engaging the younger generation and shared the initiatives they have developed, such as bringing programmes to elementary schools, building young-generation networks and introducing new technologies to improve access and support.
