The Pros And Cons Of Nuclear Power Reactors

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Those looking to go into this field should be proficient in a number of areas including nuclear physics, nuclear chemistry, algebra, trigonometry, electricity, and mechanics. All of these apply directly to the day-to-day life of a nuclear power reactor operator (or nuclear RO), described later. Most, if not all, of these subjects are taught in a plethora of colleges, from Lakeshore technical college in Wisconsin to the University of NC Wilmington. Multiple prerequisites are often required to take a reactor theory and operation class such as “radiation physics” and “radiological emergencies” (“Course Description-Lakeshore”). Although these courses build a foundation, they don’t teach everything. Much of what is learned is taught at the actual power plant itself, which is why they offer internships. Many reactor operators also have multiple licenses. …show more content…
To become licensed, operators must meet training and experience requirements, pass a medical exam, and pass the NRC licensing exam. To keep their license, operators must pass a plant-operating exam each year, pass a medical exam every 2 years, and apply for license renewal every 6 years. Licenses cannot be transferred between plants, so an operator must get a new license to operate in another facility. (“Nuclear Power Reactor Operators”)
In addition to licenses, internships, and a college education, nuclear power reactor operators need to have basic traits; a good portion of these are listed at the webpage “Nuclear Power Reactor Operators.” They include being able to focus and concentrate, the ability to watch for subtle changes, near-sighted vision, good communication skills, and being able to work well in a team and under