FIA Hosts Seminar Program for Interns
This summer, the FIA hosted its first-ever summer seminar series, open to interns of all FIA member and affiliate companies. This series aims to expand awareness of fusion development at the policy and industry levels, allowing interns to engage with leaders at the forefront of fusion policy, regulations, investment, and industry. The series is part of a broader FIA effort to grow a diverse and well-prepared workforce.
Recent advancements in fusion technology have placed the industry on the precipice of a new era, with 89% of fusion companies predicting commercialization in the 2030s. Currently, over 4,000 people are employed in the fusion industry, but many more will be needed to build and scale on a global, commercial level.The FIA’s seminar program is a response to this need, aiming to expand awareness and connect a wide array of students with industry and policy leaders.
The series features weekly discussions and Q&A led by experts. Discussions cover a wide range of topics (below), giving participants a comprehensive understanding of the developments, challenges, and opportunities within the fusion industry.
- Overview of the industry and Fusion Industry Association with Andrew Holland, Chief Executive Officer, Fusion Industry Association
- Public-private partnership programs with Dr. Colleen Nehl, Fusion Sciences Program Manager, U.S. Department of Energy Office
- Fusion regulatory landscape with Jeff Merrifiel, former U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commissioner and Partner at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP, and Sid Fowler, Counsel at Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP
- Fusion insights – the transition from academia to industry with Tom Body, Boundary and Divertor Physics Scientist, Commonwealth Fusion Systems; and Doug Endrizzi, Environmental Scientist, Realta Fusion
- International collaboration & competition with Pieter Garciano, Associate Director for Fusion, Special Competitive Studies Project
- Investment into fusion with Carly Anderson, Principal, Prelude Ventures
- Fusion markets and customers with Ben Byboth, Senior Manager at Commonwealth Fusion Systems; Diana Grandas, Fusion Research Analyst at EPRI; Kieran Furlong, Chief Executive Officer, Realta Fusion; and Matt Miles, SVP of Marketing and External Affairs, Type One Energy
The series facilitated connections and thoughtful conversations, allowing interns to engage with industry leaders and peers, gaining valuable perspectives and building networks as they embark on their careers.
The FIA seminar series set a foundation to expand on in future iterations. Thank you to all of the speakers for the valuable insights and to the participants for the enthusiasm and participation.
