Program & Schedule
Join us for an engaging lineup of events designed to ignite ideas, inspire discussions, and foster innovation. Our program includes thought-provoking keynotes, in-depth panels, and collaborative seminars led by leading experts in the nuclear industry. You will explore emerging trends, gain practical insights, and have opportunities to build meaningful connections through our networking events.
Whether you are here to learn, share, or grow, this agenda serves as your gateway to a transformative experience. Stay tuned for detailed event descriptions and announcements about our speakers!
Get ready for CNA2025 by registering and check-in in advance! Visit the 2nd floor before the conference to pick up your badge and ensure seamless access to all keynotes, sessions, and networking events.
➡️ Your badge is required for entry—secure yours early!
The Regulatory Affairs seminar will focus on information sharing and discussions regarding Canada’s evolving nuclear regulatory landscape. Representatives from the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission (CNSC) will be present to provide updates on their upcoming plans for the regulatory framework. This includes key regulations and REGDOCS, particularly REGDOC 3.2.2, which addresses Indigenous engagement. Additionally, CNSC staff will update participants on the regulatory readiness for small modular reactors (SMRs). Representatives from the Impact Assessment Agency of Canada and CNSC will also be on hand to discuss the integrated assessment process.
The Policy Seminar will focus on two key initiatives led by CNA in collaboration with our members.
An Outlook for Nuclear Energy in Canada
Canada has an opportunity in the coming decades to deploy a substantial amount of new nuclear energy, to supply low-carbon emissions electricity, and to power hard-to-decarbonize industries. The first half of the seminar will provide the findings of a recent CNA study – An Outlook for Nuclear Energy in Canada – that provides a Canadian electricity demand forecast and defines the potential role of nuclear development. The findings of this study uncover compelling arguments for Canada’s federal and provincial governments and the policies that must be considered to unleash this growth potential. The findings highlight the importance and benefits of aligning public policy and raising public awareness of Canada’s electricity challenge about demand growth.
The Future of the Canadian Nuclear Workforce: Projections and a Strategy
The nuclear sector is collaborating to identify the workforce requirements that will be required between now and 2050 to enable the full potential buildout and ensure a capable workforce is developed to support SMR and large-scale deployments across Canada. CNA is working on this critical study with many CNA members, including the provinces of Saskatchewan, Ontario, New Brunswick and Alberta, and Natural Resources Canada. The second half of the CNA Policy Seminar will present some details of the in-depth needs assessments and projections of the nuclear workforce required to enable the growth projections of the sector out to 2050. This will be followed by a discussion and consultation with seminar participants on the development of a national nuclear workforce plan.
Over the past year, key elections have taken place across Canada and North America, with more elections on the horizon that could significantly impact the nuclear sector in Canada. This seminar will feature experts who will analyze the outcomes of the federal, provincial, and US elections, while also exploring geopolitical trends related to the energy sector and trade.
In today’s evolving landscape, building strong and strategic partnerships with Indigenous First Nations is not just a business or policy consideration—it is a commitment to meaningful reconciliation, economic empowerment, and shared prosperity. Our first case study will explore the foundational principles of respectful engagement, best practices for fostering long-term, mutually beneficial relationships, and real-world examples of successful Indigenous partnerships using Aecon and George Gordon’s approach to creating a meaningful partnership called Wicehtowak Aecon. Participants will gain insights into cultural protocols, the importance of trust and reciprocity, and practical steps for collaborating with Indigenous communities in a way that honors their sovereignty, traditions, and self-determination. Whether you are representing a business, government, or non-profit organization, this session will provide valuable guidance on creating partnerships that are both impactful and sustainable.
The second case study will explore how relationships progress over time, what capacity building means and how we get there, as well as some examples of what has been achieved to date and aspirations for the future. Our discussion features Andrea Goold (Indigenous Engagement Development Advisor, OPG) and Paige Williams (Curve Lake First Nation Consultation Manager) as they investigate what works well, what can be improved, and how important it is to show up and keep the conversation alive.
Despite shifting politics in both Canada and allied nations amid a changing geopolitical landscape, support for nuclear power remains strong and in many cases is growing. Countries are setting ambitious targets, new projects are being announced, and emerging market opportunities are opening doors for further expansion. How are companies adapting their messaging to this new environment? How are governments communicating their ongoing support for nuclear to the electorate? The CNA2025 Communications Seminar is an opportunity to engage with high-level communications professionals from across the industry as well as take a deep dive into recent polling data.
We’re thrilled to invite you to the grand opening reception of the CNA2025 Tradeshow! Enjoy engaging conversations and a sneak peek at the companies and organizations that comprise Canada’s nuclear energy sector. Whether connecting with industry professionals, discovering new opportunities, or just soaking in the tradeshow’s energy, this is the perfect way to begin your experience.
Join us for an exclusive reception, bringing together professionals from the nuclear energy industry. This event is perfect for connecting with fellow experts, innovators, and leaders in a relaxed, engaging atmosphere. Whether reconnecting with old friends or forging new connections, this reception guarantees excellent conversations, delicious food, and a fun-filled experience.
➡️ The event will be held in Canada Hall 1 and the Trillium Ballroom on the 4th floor.
Sponsor
Start your day off right with a hearty breakfast! We invite all conference attendees to enjoy a complimentary morning meal, perfect for fueling up before a full day of sessions and networking. Whether you’re in the mood for a hot cup of coffee, fresh pastries, or a healthy spread, we have something for everyone.
ABOUT THE DRUMMERS
SpiritWolf Singers is a group of local artists who share a deep love for drumming and singing and a passion for learning songs from across the powwow nation. The members of SpiritWolf consider each other family; they are brothers and cousins, descendants of survivors of the residential school system. They demonstrate their resilience by preserving the tradition of song. The group’s name originates from the Pikwakanagan First Nation in Ontario. They believe in the healing power of the drum and are committed to sharing its teachings now and in the future. SpiritWolf Singers have travelled throughout Canada, into the United States, and overseas to pursue their passion for music.
ABOUT THE SMUDGING
Smudging is a ceremonial practice that holds significant cultural and spiritual importance for many Indigenous peoples in Canada. It is a traditional ritual used by various Indigenous cultures across the country, including First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. Smudging involves the burning of sacred herbs, typically sage, sweetgrass, cedar, or tobacco, and the ritualistic use of the smoke for cleansing, purifying, and connecting with the spiritual realm.
Smudging is often performed as part of prayer ceremonies or before important events, gatherings, or rituals. The smoke is considered a medium for communication with the spiritual world, ancestors, and higher powers. It is believed to create a bridge between the physical and spiritual realms, facilitating connection, guidance, and protection.
We are at a pivotal moment in the global energy landscape—one where nuclear power stands as a cornerstone for building a sustainable, reliable, and carbon-free future. This conference and tradeshow brings together innovative thinkers, influential policymakers, and top technology providers to delve into the cutting-edge advancements, challenges, and possibilities the nuclear industry offers.
Join us as the opening remarks set the stage for an inspiring event, shining a light on the latest trends, groundbreaking developments, and the exciting future of nuclear energy. Get ready to engage, learn, and explore what’s next for this vital sector!
Speakers:
- George Christidis, Interim President and CEO, CNA
- Julianne den Decker, Chair, CNA Board of Directors
Speaker
As the nuclear sector enters an exciting phase of unprecedented growth, we invite you to join us for an insightful discussion with leading utility executives. They will share their perspectives on the industry’s bright future, explore emerging opportunities, and reveal what invigorates them most as we look ahead to the coming year. Don’t miss the chance to gain valuable insights and be part of this dynamic conversation!
Speakers:
- Lori Clark, President and Chief Executive Officer, Énergie NB Power
- Eric Chassard, President and Chief Executive Officer, Bruce Power
- Nicolle Butcher, President and Chief Executive Officer, Ontario Power Generation
- Rupen Pandya, President And Chief Executive Officer, SaskPower
- Susanna Zagar, CEO, Ontario Energy Board (Moderator)
Take a break and reconnect during our morning session, where refreshments will be available. Enjoy fresh coffee, tea, and light snacks as you relax and network with fellow attendees.
The discussions will center on the co-generation and non-electric applications of small modular reactors (SMRs). This includes their use in powering and cooling data centers, oil extraction, petrochemical refining, district heating, steelmaking, and even initiatives like nuclear-powered fish hatcheries. Sean Donnelly will also address deployment challenges and examine unique characteristics related to design, nuclear licensing, and public acceptance.
Speaker:
- Sean Donnelly, Senior Director, Licensing & Advanced Reactors, Kinectrics
Creating a high-performance culture is crucial for the nuclear industry to address the dual challenges of ensuring safety and promoting innovation in a changing energy landscape. This panel will examine how organizations can empower their workforce, adapt to complex situations, and align teams around a common mission. Panelists will also share practical strategies for effective decision-making at all levels, encourage continuous learning, and develop resilient processes supporting innovation and regulatory compliance.
Speaker:
- Julie West, P.Eng. SVP, Business Improvements & Compliance, Kinectrics (Moderator)
- Kathy Parker, Partner, National Leader, Workforce Transformed Platform at PwC Canada
Speaker
As the mining sector seeks to reduce carbon emissions, the potential use of small modular reactors (SMRs) and micro-modular reactors (MMRs) presents a compelling opportunity. The Canadian Nuclear Association (CNA) and the Mining Association of Canada (MAC) are collaborating to examine the challenges and opportunities related to using nuclear power in mining operations. This initiative aims to help advance informed decision-making among industry stakeholders, government officials, policymakers, and regulators.
Speaker:
- Nathan Tedford, Director of Nuclear Technologies, Hatch
The panel discussion will focus on redefining First-Of-A-Kind risks and identifying opportunities to adopt best practices from related industries to ensure the successful development of nuclear projects in Canada. The panelists will also discuss several topics, including strategies for de-risking new technologies, balancing innovation with certainty, managing projects in an uncertain or evolving licensing environment, and how various project contracting strategies can support these initiatives.
Speakers:
- Mario Pieries, Global Director, Nuclear, Hatch
- Matt Cronin, Senior Vice President – Industrial East, Bird Construction
- Len Clewett, Executive Vice-President, Nuclear Development, Sask Power (Moderator)
-
Luca Oriani, President, Long-Term Operations, Westinghouse Electric Company
Petroleum products significantly contribute to global carbon emissions. However, we can reduce their environmental impact by repurposing existing facilities to create synthetic fuels and products with lower carbon footprints. This can be accomplished by integrating advanced nuclear technologies near refineries and petrochemical plants, which can utilize high-temperature steam while ensuring a reliable electricity supply. Célestin Piette will also present various scenarios for decarbonizing existing installations through small modular reactors (SMRs) and conclude with a comprehensive hazard assessment.
Speaker:
- Célestin Piette, Chief Vision Officer, Tractebel Inc.
As Canada explores numerous new nuclear projects involving advanced reactor technologies, developing a long-term strategy for managing used nuclear fuel waste forms is essential. The Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) is working with stakeholders of these new nuclear projects to evaluate how the new waste forms may affect the design of the established deep geological repository, which has been specifically optimized for CANDU fuel. This presentation will provide an overview of the NWMO’s proposed methodology for assessing used nuclear fuel from these new nuclear initiatives.
Speaker:
- Sara Dolatshahi, Director, Strategic Projects, Nuclear Waste Management Organization
Speakers:
- Chief Kelly LaRocca, Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation
- Chief Laurie Carr, Hiawatha First Nation
- Nicolle Butcher, President and CEO, Ontario Power Generation (Moderator)
Speaker:
- Ben Reinke, Vice President, Global Business Development, X-energy
Join us for a lunch with your fellow conference attendees! Refuel with a variety of satisfying options that not only tantalize your taste buds but also provide the perfect atmosphere for meaningful connections.
Don’t miss this opportunity to network, recharge, and get ready for the exciting sessions ahead. See you there!
Sponsor
The construction of nuclear reactors requires the deployment of resources and processes in exceptional volumes. The technical complexity of these facilities requires many highly complex operations to be carried out in a highly constrained environment and schedule. This panel will discuss the success factors for new nuclear builds using examples from Canada and abroad.
- Tola Ladipo, Senior Director, Nuclear, Aecon
- Monika Eby, Senior Project Manager, Hatch
- Maxime Desplats, Nuclear Power – International Director, Egis
- Moderator: Magdalena Hanebach, Associate, Gowling
This panel will highlight and explore Canada’s collaborative efforts with global partners in the development, regulation and promotion of nuclear technology. The panelists will offer valuable insights into the legislative and regulatory needs to enable nuclear build-out and consider close partnerships with like-minded countries to enhance the safety and innovation we are seeing in the nuclear industry. The discussion will equally celebrate the nuclear sector’s successes while critically examining the challenges and opportunities that the world faces in light of shifting political leadership around the world.
The nuclear sector in Canada needs a skilled workforce, and colleges play a crucial role in addressing this by developing aligned training programs and fostering partnerships. This session will showcase how institutions like Georgian College collaborate with nuclear leaders, including Bruce Power and the Nuclear Innovation Institute, to create specialized training and micro-credentials for students. The panel aims to inspire discussions on collaboration among educational institutions, industry, and government to build a sustainable workforce that meets Canada’s energy needs.
Speakers:
- Michelle Branigan, CEO of Electricity Human Resources Canada (EHRC) (Moderator)
- Dave Shorey, Executive Director, Owen Sound Campus, Georgian College
- Jamie Bramburger, Interim Dean, Pembroke Campus Algonquin College
- Dan Miller, Talent Acquisition Strategy Lead for Bruce Power
Canada must collaboratively address challenges and obstacles across the industry to maintain its lead in the small modular reactor (SMR) sector. A cooperative approach is needed to tackle technology developers’ critical path challenges while maximizing research and market opportunities. This will help new nuclear power meet future energy demands in a rapidly evolving system. The panel will discuss three examples that illustrate the importance of government, academia, and industry collaboration in advancing nuclear power in Canada.
Speakers:
- Ali Siddiqui, Head of Directorate, Advanced Reactors, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories
- Amy Gottschling, Vice-President, Science, Technology and Commercialization, Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (Moderator)
The duty to consult Indigenous communities is a legal and ethical requirement in developing small modular reactor (SMR) projects rooted in reconciliation and recognition of Indigenous rights. This consultation acknowledges the unique relationships that Indigenous peoples have with their lands and resources.
The panel will explore the need for First Nations to have meaningful ownership in future Canadian reactors, moving beyond minor equity stakes. This significant ownership will support capacity building, enable access to government infrastructure funding for SMR projects, and foster the creation of Indigenous-owned companies within the SMR supply chain.
Speakers:
- Mike Ruysseveldt, Director, Indigenous Relations and New Business, Kinectrics
- Bob Watts, Vice President, Indigenous Relations, Nuclear Waste Management Office
- Larkin Mosscrop, Manager, Environmental Services and Clean Energy, Kinectrics (Moderator)
Addressing workforce challenges through generative AI is emerging as a transformative technology that can revolutionize talent recruitment, training, management, and retention in the nuclear energy sector. The presentation will address how senior management can leverage AI to be a powerful tool in engaging with a diverse workforce while enhancing employee well-being.
Speaker:
- Ash Anderson, Principal Director, Talent and Organization, Accenture
Speakers:
- Tim Gitzel, President and CEO, Cameco
- Jean-Luc Palayer, President & CEO of Orano US
- Laurent Odeh, Chief Commercial Officer, Urenco
- Moderator: Rosemary Yeremian, EVP, Strategy and Engagement, Advanced Nuclear Advisors
Take a well-deserved break and enjoy a variety of refreshments during our afternoon break. Whether you’re looking for a caffeine boost, a light snack, or a moment to relax, this is the perfect time to recharge and connect with fellow attendees.
The Next Generation Project Delivery Framework is an innovative approach that integrates methodologies such as Integrated Project Delivery (IPD), Lean Construction, Advanced Work Packaging (AWP), and Project Production Management. This framework aims to improve the execution of capital projects, particularly in the nuclear sector, where efficient and predictable project delivery is crucial as the industry transitions towards a low-carbon future.
Traditional project management methods often struggle with large-scale projects. This session will demonstrate how the Next Generation approach consolidates proven principles into a cohesive framework, empowering stakeholders in the nuclear energy sector to develop safe, innovative, and efficient infrastructure. This framework sets a new standard for transformative projects in an ever-evolving global landscape.
Speakers:
- Fernando España, President, Construct-X
- John Strickland, Principal, Collaborative Flow
- James Choo, Technical Committee, Project Production Institute (PPI)
- Mark Childerson, Cofounder/Product Manager, Garner
- Michael Dubreuil, Managing Partner, PTAG (Moderator)
As Canada’s nuclear sector builds for the future through operational excellence of the existing fleet and deployment of new projects, there has never been a greater need for effective collaboration, learning from experience, and alignment of practice. In this session, a panel of sector leaders will share examples of challenges that the sector or their organizations have encountered and discuss how the development and implementation of consensus standards have supported solutions. The panel will also explore the evolving role of standardization in Canada’s nuclear future, including addressing emerging topics, increasing international collaboration, and engaging interested and impacted parties.
Speakers:
- Melanie Rickard, Director General, Directorate of Assessment and Analysis, Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission
- Liam Mooney, Vice President, Safety, Health, Environment & Quality and Regulatory Relations, Cameco Corporation
- Grant Cherkas, Vice President, Market Development and Chief Engineer, Westinghouse Electric Canada
- Gary Newman, Chief Engineer and Senior Vice President of Engineering, Bruce Power
- Moderator: Carl Daniel, Vice President, Nuclear Sector Lead – AECOM Canada Nuclear Services Inc.
The growing demand for skilled talent in the nuclear sector makes collaboration between industry and academia more crucial than ever. The industry competes for internal and external talent, and there is a pressing need for a coordinated approach to address the longstanding shortage of nuclear professionals. Additionally, Canada is working towards fulfilling its Equal by 30 commitment.
This panel will bring together industry and academic partners to explore actionable strategies for developing a strong and diverse workforce. The focus will be on attracting new talent, enhancing the existing workforce, promoting diversity, and including Indigenous perspectives.
Attendees will learn practical steps the nuclear industry can take to tackle workforce challenges through collaboration.
Speakers:
- Dave Shorey, Executive Director of Georgian College’s Owen Sound Campus
- Dr. Gina L Strati, Director of the Academic Partnership Program (CNL)
- Dr. Jennifer McKellar, P.Eng., Associate Professor, Ontario Tech University
- Moderator: Daniel Hoornweg, PhD, P.Eng., Director of Partnerships and Industry Training; Associate Professor, Ontario tech university
- Aiman Khan, President, Women in Nuclear (WiN) Canada & Senior Program Manager, Bruce Power
Speakers
Organized labour needs coordinated forecasting to help the nuclear energy industry identify labour gaps during future construction phases. Identifying these gaps and sharing knowledge is essential for planning effective solutions to attract youth, women in trades, and Indigenous participants. The panellists from different labour unions will discuss how the nuclear sector can identify gaps, formulate an effective strategy and plan a pathway for future workforce development.
Speakers:
- Jeff Parnell, President, Power Workers’ Union
- Jonathan White, Director of Construction Sector Operations, International Brotherhood of Boilermakers
- Marc Arsenault, Business Manager and Secretary-Treasurer, Provincial Building and Construction Trades Council
- Maura McDonald, Vice President, Global Key Accounts and Stakeholders, Candu Energy Inc., an AtkinsRéalis company (Moderator)
Large nuclear projects are complex and often have a history of poor success rates. Owners and contractors frequently struggle to staff these projects with experienced personnel with the expertise necessary for successful project delivery. With billions of dollars at stake, these challenges can be extremely costly.
The Bruce Power MCR and Darlington Refurbishment projects distinguished themselves by establishing a robust independent oversight process early in their development. Senior executives collaborated with experienced project teams and independent oversight experts, providing trusted, valuable insight and support. This panel will discuss the benefits, challenges, and strategies for implementing effective independent oversight in future projects with new owners and contractors.
Speakers:
- Ray Seker, Principal, IEDG Infrastructure & Energy Inc.
- Gary Williams, President IEDG Infrastructure & Energy Inc.
- Eric Gould, Partner, Modus Strategic Solutions
- Carla Carmichael,
The Clean Energy Frontier, which includes Bruce, Grey, and Huron counties within the Saugeen Ojibway Nation territory, is a leader in clean energy production and innovation, supported by Bruce Power and a robust network of suppliers in the region. Since 2016, the area has become an economic hub, attracting over 60 clean energy companies and fostering partnerships among governments, industries, and communities.
This presentation will cover strategies that enhance workforce development, integrate supply chains, and encourage community engagement, ensuring shared benefits for all stakeholders. Key lessons emphasize the need for regional foresight and a coordinated business approach to strengthen rural economies.
By showcasing the Clean Energy Frontier’s successes, the session will demonstrate how rural areas can effectively implement new nuclear technologies, such as small modular reactors (SMRs), while driving sustainable local economic growth.
Speakers:
- Stellina Williams, Vice President, Nuclear Innovation Institute
- John R. MacQuarrie, P.Eng, M.A.Sc, President, Commercial Operations, BWXT Technologies
- John D’Angelo, Chief Nuclear Officer, Kinectrics
- Luke Charbonneau, Mayor of the Town of Saugeen Shores, Warden of Bruce County
Speaker
Wrap up an exciting day with a wonderful reception to commemorate another successful year at the CNA Tradeshow. It’s more than just unwinding; it’s about connecting with industry leaders, exhibitors, and fellow attendees in a fun and informal setting. Enjoy great music, food, and drinks while continuing conversations, forging new partnerships, and celebrating the day’s achievements.
Sponsor
Kick off the second day of the conference with an energizing complimentary breakfast! Join us for fresh coffee, delicious pastries, and a variety of nutritious options. It’s a perfect way to fuel your day before diving into another round of insightful sessions and exciting networking opportunities. Don’t miss this chance to connect and recharge!
Ray Zahab is a Canadian explorer, ultra-distance runner, and founder of the non-profit impossible2Possible. A recipient of the Meritorious Service Cross of Canada, he is an Explorer in Residence at the Royal Canadian Geographical Society and a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society. In 2024, he received the Sir Christopher Ondaatje Medal for Exploration. Ray has run over 17,000 km across the world’s deserts and led unsupported expeditions in extreme cold regions.
He has authored two books—Running for My Life and the youth-focused bestseller Running to Extremes—sharing his journey from an unhealthy lifestyle to becoming an endurance athlete. He is currently working on his third book.
As a sought-after speaker, Ray has presented at TED, the IOC World Conference, The Economist, and various corporate and educational events. He has appeared on major media outlets, including CNN, BBC, CBC, and Discovery, and hosted Project Guatemala on OLN.
For more information on Ray and his work, please visit his website https://www.rayzahab.com/about/
What does it take to create a future-ready, First Nations-led nuclear workforce in Canada?
During this session, presenters will emphasize the urgent need to address the skills gap and highlight the unique opportunity for First Nations to lead the development of Canada’s nuclear workforce. The speakers will share valuable lessons learned in building a sustainable and inclusive talent pipeline by providing an overview that includes economic data and case studies of workforce planning in Saskatchewan. This approach fosters meaningful participation in the labour force and paves the way for long-term economic reconciliation. Attendees will gain insights into how these initiatives are unlocking the potential of First Nations talent in Saskatchewan, creating a generational workforce solution that benefits all Canadians.
Speakers:
- Sheldon Wuttunee, President and CEO, Saskatchewan First Nations Natural Resources Centre of Excellence Inc.
- Stephen Harrington, National Leader, Workforce Strategy, Deloitte Canada
A Nuclear Renaissance for Canada and the globe requires industry leaders to engage in future-oriented decision-making like never before. Effective succession planning and capacity building are fundamental to successfully meeting the rising demand for complex design, manufacturing, fabrication, and construction.
This panel will bring together key industry leaders who recognize the importance of strategic succession planning. They will discuss transferring expertise, engaging with new demographics, expanding capacity, and adopting innovative work methods to enhance capabilities.
Speakers;
- John MacQuarrie, President, BWXT
- Stephanie Smith, Chief Nuclear Officer, Candu Energy
- Anthony DeChellis, P.Eng, MBA, Chief Operating Officer, E.S Fox
- Jessica Linthorne, President & CEO, Nuclear Innovation Institute (Moderator)
The nuclear industry is embracing digital transformation, with digital twin technology playing a vital role in improving reactor research, enabling remote operations for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), and enhancing digital engineering. This technology also supports human performance training and nuclear decommissioning. Organizations in the industry are already utilizing digital twins to tackle some of their most urgent challenges.
The discussion will focus on digital transformation journeys, innovation in a regulated environment, demonstrating business value, and workforce preparation. Panelists will share lessons learned and best practices on how digital twin technology can enhance operational excellence, safety, and sustainability in nuclear energy.
Speakers:
- Jennifer Wong, Accenture (moderator)
- Peter Elder, Chief Scientific Officer, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories
- Patrick Desbiens, Digital Engineering Lead, Bruce Power
- Mohammed Movassat, Monitoring & Diagnostics Lead, Ontario Power Generation
- Ian Davis, Digital Engineering Lead, X-energy
As the demand for nuclear power continues to rise, our supporting supply chain must adapt and evolve to meet these global needs. How can we create a supply chain that not only benefits from this growth but also adjusts to face future challenges?
The panel will discuss the necessary steps the nuclear industry must take today to establish a supply chain that is fit for purpose and capable of addressing the growth challenges of tomorrow. The speakers will also explore how AtkinsRéalis, Bruce Power, and Ontario Power Generation can collaborate to achieve this goal.
Speakers:
- Adrian Davies, Vice President Supply Chain & Procurement, Candu Energy
- Brian Fehrenbach, Interim CEO & President, OCNI (Moderator)
- Jun Tang – Vice President Marketing & Sales, BWXT
- Bruce Van Nus – Vice President & Principal Engineer, NWI Precision
- Sean Smith – President, BC Instruments
Medical isotopes have been at the forefront of the fight against cancer for over 100 years. As demand for precision radiopharmaceuticals continues to grow, there is a need for large-scale production of key isotopes. Canada’s nuclear sector has recently pioneered the use of nuclear power plants for medical isotope production, which represents a step change in production, reliability of supply, and availability of therapeutic isotopes. This panel will feature leaders within Canada’s isotope and radiopharmaceutical sector in discussions around current and future opportunities for medical isotope and radiopharmaceutical production, utilization, and collaborations.
With the invaluable expertise of leaders in the nuclear supply chain in Canada, this session addresses the techniques to overcome supply chain challenges and promote resiliency to expand the Canadian medical isotope market. This session will also highlight Canada’s advantages in technology and collaboration to improve production and supply of critical isotopes.
This session will also include the signing of a historic Memorandum of Understanding between the Canadian Nuclear Isotope Council (CNIC) and the Canadian Nuclear Association (CNA) to formalize the regular inclusion of policy recommendations that address nuclear isotope innovation within CNA advocacy efforts.
Speakers:
- James Scongack, Chair, Canadian Nuclear Isotope Council
- Dave Euser, Vice President, New Build Integration, Candu Energy Inc., an AtkinsRéalis company
- Travis Besanger, Vice President Medical Isotopes, Isogen
- Karin Stephenson, Director Nuclear Research and Education Support, McMaster University
- Vittorio Puppo, President, BWXT Medical
Speaker:
Pierre Tremblay, CNSC President and CEO, Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission
Take a moment to refresh and refuel during our morning break, featuring a selection of coffee, tea, and light refreshments. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax, network, and prepare for the next sessions ahead.
Speakers:
- Robert Kwon, Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC) President and CEO
- Alison Nankivell, President and Chief Executive Officer, Export Development Canada
Integrating robotics and automation into nuclear facilities is crucial for enhancing capacity, productivity, and safety. Despite slower adoption compared to other sectors, recent implementations show that commercial robots can effectively address challenges in hazardous environments, such as waste handling, radiation monitoring, equipment inspection, and remote maintenance.
This presentation will showcase AtkinsRéalis’ experiences deploying robots at complex nuclear sites like Sellafield in the UK. Through case studies, the speaker will demonstrate how these technologies improve safety by reducing human exposure, increase efficiency through continuous operation, and enhance reliability by minimizing downtime, providing valuable lessons for future applications in nuclear facilities.
Speaker:
- Christian Pilon, Head of Robotics & Automation Nuclear, AtkinsRéalis
Using an Integrated Project Delivery (IPD) model, Bird and its partners collaborate with Canadian Nuclear Labs (CNL) in Chalk River, Ontario to optimize project outcomes. As one of Canada’s largest nuclear research facilities, this work is part of a $1.2-billion investment from AECL representing the Government of Canada.
As Canada begins constructing new nuclear facilities, including Small Modular and Large Scale Reactors, effective early design and engineering engagement is crucial. The project team is addressing various challenges, such as evolving requirements, regulatory clarity, and material performance, which can complicate construction.
This presentation will explore successful methods for aligning differing perspectives early in the process to identify cost-effective and practical solutions.
Speakers:
- Jared van de Ligt, Construction Manager, Bird Construction
- Sean Keating, Engineering Director, Bird Construction
- Minister René Legacy, Deputy Premier / Minister of Finance and Treasury Board / Minister responsible for Energy / Minister responsible for the Right to Information and Protection of Privacy Act, New Brunswick
- Minister Nathan Neudorf, Minister of Affordability and Utilities of Alberta
- David Brock, Vice President, Crown Investment Security, Crown Investment Corporation of Saskatchewan (CIC)
- Moderator: Lisa McBride, Country Leader, Small Modular Reactors, Nuclear Products Division, GE Hitachi
In recent days, we have explored cutting-edge advancements, policy developments, and the evolving role of nuclear energy in achieving a sustainable future. From insightful keynote speeches and panel discussions to groundbreaking technologies showcased on the tradeshow floor, this conference has reinforced the vital role of nuclear energy in meeting global energy demands.
As the CNA2025 Conference and Tradeshow comes to an end, let us acknowledge the insights and ideas shared over the past few days. May these discussions inspire us to continue our conversations and make progress to advance the nuclear industry.
Wrap up the conference on a high note with a delightful End-of-Conference luncheon! Enjoy a delicious meal, reflect on key takeaways, and connect with fellow attendees one last time before we part ways.
