Engineering Inc. - September/October 2007 - (Page 5) Nuclear Power Expansion to Surge Despite Labor Challenges T he U.S. nuclear power industry is moving full speed ahead with plans to expand its capacity to meet a projected increase in demand for electricity—despite a lack of skilled workers, insufficient manufacturing capacity and other problems. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) expects to receive three to five applications to construct and operate new nuclear reactors by the end of 2007 and about 10 more in 2008, according to NRC Chairman Dale Klein. Before ground is broken for new facili- ties, the industry must address a worsening shortage of skilled workers, limited U.S. manufacturing capability and uncertainty about future uranium supplies, among other issues. Retirement and attrition are expected to trim the industry’s workforce by 40 percent during the next five years, according to the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI), an industry trade group. A combination of federal job training grants and several bills moving through Congress seek to address workforce shortages. The manufacturing sector, which constitutes a sup- ply base for the industry, has changed dramatically since the last nuclear plants were built. The number of domestic suppliers with nuclear accreditation dropped to 100 in 2006 compared with 500 in the late 1980s, according to NEI. Today, the industry relies on foreign manufacturers to produce major components, such as steam generators and reactor vessels. Most of these suppliers already are operating at full capacity and are experiencing production backlogs because other countries, including China and Russia, also have announced plans to expand their nuclear power sectors. One Road. Many Destinations. Your career travels an open road of endless possibility. As a licensed P.E., you will encounter fewer roadblocks, detours, and breakdowns on your lifelong journey. You will have better career control, with enhanced employability and promotability—not to mention more prestige and better pay. The NCEES is here to provide the roadside assistance you will need to reach all your destinations. We offer exam prep materials and information, and we administer a Records Program that assists P.E.’s in becoming licensed in additional states. Visit our Web site for a Records program application. National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying Call 800-250-3196 www.ncees.org Fax 864-654-6033 sEptEmbER/oCtobER 2007 ENGINEERING INC. http://www.ncees.org
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