Nuclear Human Resource Development for a Net Zero Future [eng., ar., zh., fr., ru., es.]

Human resource development is fundamental to the long-term sustainability and expansion of nuclear power. However, it stands out as one of the most significant challenges facing the industry due to the rigorous demands it places on the workforce. To help build and maintain the workforce needed to expand nuclear power at the scale envisioned, the IAEA offers capacity building initiatives such as Nuclear Knowledge Management (NKM) Schools, strategic planning training programmes, assist visits and fellowship opportunities. These initiatives are designed to prepare the next generation of professionals and bolster the skills of the current workforce to ensure that nuclear power continues to expand globally as we strive to meet our net zero goals. As the nuclear power landscape continues to evolve, so too do industry challenges. According to an IAEA report published in 2023, nuclear facility workforces are typically older than those of other major industrial facilities, highlighting the need to emphasize knowledge retention as more and more long-term employees approach retirement. The complex technologies associated with nuclear power plants (NPPs) require longer employee development processes, and nuclear energy activities require exceptionally high levels of oversight. Strong human resource development processes are vital to addressing these and other issues. "Capacity building as an ongoing and ever-improving process is vital for nuclear power expansion," says Mikhail Chudakov, IAEA Deputy Director General and Head of the Department of Nuclear Energy. "With considerable expertise cultivated over nearly seven decades, the IAEA is well equipped to assist our Member States in developing the human resources needed to meet their ambitious goals for nuclear power".