The UK’s nuclear sector is entering a period of renewed momentum, with major new build projects, decommissioning programmes and advanced technologies shaping the future of clean energy.
As the industry grows, so too does the need for talented people from a wide range of backgrounds. At the same time, parts of the workforce are retiring, and expectations around safety, ethics and competence are rising.
There is no single route into nuclear and the sector depends on both technical and non-technical expertise, Attracting and retaining a diverse workforce is essential if the industry is to meet its ambitions and continue delivering for society.
To mark National Careers Week (Monday 2nd March – Saturday 7th March 2026), the Nuclear Institute is highlighting the breadth of opportunity across the sector through a series of member case studies, showcasing the varied pathways that lead into nuclear and the rewarding careers that follow.
Robert Gofton, CEO of Nuclear Institute, said: “As a sector, we’re aware that the skills requirement is acute, and it’s not just about attracting graduates and new talent, but retaining the existing workforce.
To meet the demand of 40,000 net new nuclear workers by 2030 and build a qualified workforce, we assess professionals with our Nuclear Professionalism Standard® that gives confidence in capability to employers".
Career changers and cross-sector professionals thriving in nuclear
Alessandro Mirabella: For over sixteen years, Alessandro Mirabella IEng has built his career at the UK’s National Nuclear Laboratory, progressing from junior project engineering roles to Senior Project Manager within delivery and is now Account Director. In his role, he leads key customer relationships and oversees the delivery of complex strategic projects.
Alessandro recently achieved Member status after going through the Nuclear Institute’s professional review process, supported by his mentor.
He sees his role within new builds and emerging advanced nuclear technologies as “the best job in the world”, offering short- and long-term benefits to society.
Jo Plyer: Jo Plyer’s route into nuclear began in local authority environmental services before she moved to the Environment Agency, where she spent almost a decade regulating waste, landfill, chemical manufacturing and other high-hazard industrial sites.
Her transition into nuclear came after supporting the agency’s nuclear team and joining one of the first development programmes designed to move regulators from Pollution Prevention and Control (PPC) into nuclear regulation. With a background in biology and environmental science, Jo strengthened her nuclear knowledge through self-directed study, including reactor design and plant operations.
“I took a punt and embraced the challenge. It was demanding, but I was determined to meet the competency requirements and prove the transition could work — not just for me, but for those who followed.”
Helen Milburn: After completing a degree in mathematics at University of Liverpool, Helen spent time working in Greece before returning to the UK. Living near Winfrith, she applied for a technical officer role – the beginning of a successful career in nuclear.
Today, as Decommissioning Lead at Hinkley Point C, she is responsible for developing and maintaining the strategy and plan for safely and effectively dismantling the plant at the end of its 60-year operating life. One of the critical enablers for switching the reactor on, a plan for decommissioning must be in place before generation begins.
From early inspiration to leadership
Kirsty Armer: Kirsty Armer knew early on that she wanted a career in nuclear. A school trip to Torness Nuclear Power Station near Edinburgh sparked a lifelong interest that led her to join British Nuclear Fuels Limited (BNFL) as a sponsored student straight from school.
She completed her degree in Physics at Manchester University, then joined the BNFL graduate training scheme as a Radiation Protection Advisor – an early foundation for a career that’s spanned technical leadership, business strategy and industry transformation.
Kirsty is Fellow of the Nuclear Institute and she now serves as a Trustee on the board, Kirsty dedicates her time to supporting the Institute’s transformation and growth.
“Nuclear is essential to tackling climate change. But we want to attract more people into the industry – and ensure they quickly gain a solid understanding of what nuclear professionalism really means. The Nuclear Institute plays a key role in that process,” she says.
Michael Greenshields: Michael Greenshields, Chief Operating Officer of Orano’s UK business, is a Chartered Civil Engineer and Fellow of both the Nuclear Institute and the Institution of Civil Engineers.
After graduating in 2011 with a degree in civil engineering from the University of Glasgow, he secured a role at the technology and engineering consultancy, where he was responsible for leading the delivery of a range of significant projects and bids, working primarily within nuclear generation, new build, decommissioning and defence.
In 2022, Michael joined Orano as UK Director of Business Development and was appointed Chief Operating Officer 2025, now responsible for four technical departments and a portfolio of around £20 million in annual project revenues and manages the majority of Orano’s UK workforce.
Michael is proud of the sector and the direction it’s heading in. “It feels like a time of optimism and opportunity,” he says. “There’s strong government backing and real momentum behind new projects. It’s a great time to be in nuclear.”
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Whether driven by a passion for clean energy, complex engineering challenges or long-term societal impact, there are clear and supported pathways into meaningful, future-focused roles.
The Nuclear Institute continues to champion the people, professionalism and skills that will power the UK’s nuclear future.
To find out more, visit: www.nuclearinst.com/membership/member-profile/.
ENDS
For more information and interview opportunities, please contact Arianne Smart on 07435 763384 or arianne.smart@distinctivecomms.co.uk.