Commercial Nuclear Power Plant Reactor Response – Practical versus Theoretical

Simulators have become increasingly powerful and capable of not only reproducing neutronics, but entire primary and secondary responses.  This seminar will demonstrate the utility of a Pressurized Water Reactor simulator for educational and training purposes under a wide range of reactor conditions.  Specifically, we will discuss how various topics covered in the Nuclear Engineering Curriculum, such as thermal-hydraulics, reactor physics, and materials, play a role in the “real world” of reactor plant operations and how simulators can help to bridge the gap between academic training and practical application.

George McCullough, Sr. is currently the Vice President for Business Development at GSE Power systems in St. Marys, GA.  He is responsible for business development in the nuclear, fossil, and training sectors, working with various large companies (GE and ABB) and coordinating various projects for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and Cook Power Plant among others.  With over thirty-five years of experience in nuclear power, he has previously been the Vice President for the Georgia Business Unit at GSE Power Systems, Simulator Project Manager, Test Operator, Instructor, and Senior Reactor Operator for American Electric Power, and completed Navy Nuclear Power School.