An Overview of the American Nuclear Society and Perspective on the Current State of the Nuclear Industry

Abstract

Craig Piercy, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of the American Nuclear Society (ANS), will present about the history and current activities within the ANS, including how the they have provided position statements, education, and outreach for a rapidly evolving nuclear landscape. Piercy will also discuss recent efforts within ANS to develop education and training modules, including the popular nuclear 101 certificate course, as well as training in licensing and regulation and providing professional development. The formal remarks will conclude with a perspective on the current growth in the nuclear power sector, including both the restart of formerly decommissioned reactors and new nuclear reactor technology deployment. Following the prepared remarks, a question and answer period will provide additional opportunities to hear Piercy’s perspective on the current nuclear industry.

Biography

Piercy serves as the CEO of the ANS, a position he has held since November 2019. Prior to taking the helm at ANS, Piercy was managing director of the Washington Office of the Bose Public Affairs Group, where he built and oversaw a 20-person, 60-client, $5 million a year government affairs and policy consultancy specializing in energy, science, and education. While at Bose, Piercy also served as ANS Washington Representative, playing a central role in several high-profile nuclear policy victories, including the creation of the Nuclear Energy University Program (NEUP) and Integrated University Program (IUP) and defeating legislation that would have banned the commercial use of 14 radioisotopes.

Prior to entering private practice, Piercy worked on Capitol Hill for 8 years, including service as Chief of Staff for Congressman Joe Knollenberg (R-MI) and Associate Staff of the House Appropriations Committee. During his time on the Hill, Piercy led efforts to preserve federal nuclear R&D funding and to accelerate cleanup of the U.S. Department of Energy’s defense nuclear sites. Piercy has a bachelor’s degree in Government and Politics from the University of Maryland, College Park, and is a graduate of the Public Affairs Institute.