Making connections in the industry as a PhD student can be achieved through various avenues beyond job fairs and conferences. Networking with former students of advisors is highlighted as a valuable strategy, particularly in the closely-knit engineering fields. For those studying nuclear materials in the US, engaging with active IEEE chapters can provide additional networking opportunities. While national labs, the NRC, and academia are common career paths for nuclear PhDs, local power companies that operate nuclear plants, as well as major corporations like GE and General Atomics, are significant employers. Although the current job market for nuclear engineering is not thriving, power companies do hire PhDs, often for roles in resource planning and management. Additionally, companies like Intel are also seeking nuclear engineers, indicating diverse opportunities in the field.
