CEO Robert Gofton discusses the launch of the new Nuclear Institute strategy, which was unveiled at Nuclear Week in Parliament:
The UK's nuclear sector is at a pivotal moment—poised for unprecedented growth but facing critical challenges that demand collective action. As I reflect on many discussions from this year’s Nuclear Week in Parliament, it's clear that there is much for us to focus on in 2025 and beyond.
The nuclear industry is not alone in facing challenges – social, technological, economic and political. But opportunities for the industry and the UK more broadly are huge if we pull together and seize them.
This was an overriding sentiment from discussions with industry leaders and stakeholders in Westminster this week. The strategy launch event, hosted by the Rt Hon Alicia Kearns, MP for Rutland and Stamford and Rt Hon Andrew Bowie, MP for West Aberdeenshire and Kincardine, made a fitting the backdrop for launching the Nuclear Institute’s ambitious plans to support our members and drive professionalism across our dynamic, growing sector.
This milestone marks a significant step for our organisation and highlights the crucial role we continue to play in shaping nuclear as a force for good.
(L-R) CEO Robert Gofton, Rt Hon Lord Hunt OBE and NI President Professor Fiona Rayment OBE
Addressing the recruitment gap
One of the most pressing challenges facing our industry is meeting the demand for skilled employees. The UK’s nuclear sector needs 40,000 net new entrants by 2030 to meet its growth ambitions. This translates to a 2:1 ratio of jobs to nuclear workers.
As the professional membership body dedicated to nuclear, we're committed to addressing this challenge.
Our new strategy focuses on four key ambitions: developing membership, amplifying our voice, excelling through professionalism, and connecting members. These pillars are designed to support our existing members and to attract and nurture new talent entering the field.
A growing community
The nuclear sector is experiencing huge growth, and our body of professionals is growing in parallel. With a 20% increase in individual membership in 2024 alone and a 70% rise in organisational membership since 2022, we're seeing the industry's expansion first-hand.
This growth reflects not only the expansion of the sector but also the increasing recognition of the Nuclear Institute as a hub for connecting the nuclear community and professional development
Our goal to double membership by 2030 is not just an aspiration; it's a necessity to keep pace with the sector's demands.
Professionalism at the core
At the heart of our strategy is a commitment to professionalism. We're introducing more measures to support members in adapting to industry needs and completing continuous professional development (CPD).
The new Nuclear Professionalism Standard will provide independently verified professional recognition, raising the bar for expertise across the sector.
Impact on the UK nuclear industry
Our influence extends far beyond our membership, as important as this is. As we evolve, we play an increasingly important role in shaping the UK's nuclear landscape in the following ways:
- Skills development: Our mentoring scheme, which engaged more than 220 members since launching in 2024, facilitates knowledge transfer and supports career progression.
- Industry standards: By setting and maintaining high professional standards, we're ensuring that the UK nuclear workforce remains world-class.
- Public engagement: Our efforts to communicate the benefits of nuclear energy continue, helping to educate and engage key stakeholders and the public.
Looking ahead
As we implement our new strategy, we remain committed to delivering positive change across every part of our sector.
By supporting career progression, providing enhanced development opportunities, and attracting and retaining the best talent, we're strengthening the sector and helping to make the country greener, safer and economically vibrant.
While the challenges ahead are significant, so are the opportunities. Our industry makes a huge contribution to the country's economic, social and environmental wellbeing. By fostering professionalism, driving innovation, and bridging the skills gap, the Nuclear Institute is ensuring that the UK remains at the forefront of nuclear technology and sustainability.
As we move forward, we invite all nuclear professionals to join us in this exciting journey, and the time to act is now. By working together, we can ensure the UK leads the way in nuclear innovation and driving a more sustainable future.
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