- Nuclear industry’s premier event comes to Atlanta May 21-23
- Highlights include thought leaders, industry awards, special event
- City offers great dining, museum options and more
It’s May and that can only mean one thing: It’s time for NEI’s Nuclear Energy Assembly (NEA), the premier event for the U.S. nuclear energy industry. This year, NEA will be held in Atlanta from May 21-23. The annual conference and supplier expo brings together industry leaders from all levels, along with young professionals attending the North American Young Generation in Nuclear (NAYGN) Professional Development Conference. This is the fourth year that the two conferences will be running back-to-back.
If you’re still on the fence on whether or not you should attend, here are the top reasons to go:
- Hear from industry thought leaders. Whether you’re into the latest nuclear technology, the outlook for international commercial nuclear deals or want to get involved in the industry’s strategy to preserve local nuclear plants—the NEA agenda has something for you. Attendees will hear from Mike Allen, co-founder and executive editor of Axios, on the 2018 midterm elections. Jay Wileman, president and chief executive officer of GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy, will lead a discussion on how the industry is fostering innovation and leading the advance of new nuclear technologies. And former Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz will talk about the strategic importance of a robust nuclear industry for the country.
- Catch a great museum. In your downtime, why not see what Atlanta has to offer? For starters, the city has a great collection of museums. With great art at the High Museum of Art, aviation history at the Delta Flight Museum, and the story of an American icon at the World of Coca-Cola, Atlanta’s museums have something for everyone.
- Recognize your peers. NEA isn’t just about inspiring speakers and a bustling supplier expo hall. It’s also about recognizing the achievements of the hard-working men and women of America’s nuclear energy industry. There’s the annual Top Innovative Practice Awards which honor the past year’s innovations that have improved the safety, reliability and efficiency of nuclear plants. And the William S. Lee Award recognizes the industry’s visionary and outstanding personal leadership.
- Indulge in a special evening out. As part of NEA, participants get to experience a night out on the town. This year, NEA attendees will enjoy a special evening on the roof of the historic Ponce City Market. The event will include games, music, plenty of food and skyline views that are not to be missed.
- Enjoy world-class barbecue. Whether you’re into the thick and smoky flavors of Memphis, the tart vinegar and mustard of the Carolinas, or the hefty Texas brisket—Atlanta has the barbecue you’re looking for. After the conference day is over, world-class barbecue is only a short drive away in any direction.
- Network with nuclear’s best and brightest. The top reason to come to NEA can’t be found on the official agenda—it’s the people. NEA abounds in coffee breaks, lunches and small sessions where you can network and meet the people who are innovating and leading the U.S. nuclear industry. Better yet, have your contacts meet you in the center of the Expo Hall at the new NEI Lounge, where there will be communal space to network and NEI staff available to answer your questions. There’s no better way to get face time with the current—and emerging—leaders of our industry than to come to NEA, business cards in hand, and introduce yourself to welcoming colleagues.
If you’re interested in registering, hurry! There are only a few days left to qualify for advance registration that closes May 7. The cutoff date for reduced rates at the official hotel is May 4. We hope to see you there!