Deborah Farnsworth is the Senior Director of Reactor Operations at the University of Missouri Research Reactor.
For the latest entry in Astute People Inc.’s People Powered Profile series, Deborah Farnsworth spoke with Dan Bisset, VP – North America, about her career, the evolving nuclear sector, and the innovations driving change in the industry.
Can you tell us about your career journey so far?
I started my career in the generation side of the nuclear industry, initially working as a co-op student at a nuclear power plant in Kansas.
After graduating, I joined Westinghouse, working at different plants, including one near my family, Comanche Peak.
This experience was formative; I was able to move into different roles across reactor operations, from chemistry and equipment reliability to gaining my Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license.
From there, I moved to Amarillo and worked at Callaway Nuclear Plant, taking on responsibilities in work management, operations, and performance improvement.
Eventually, I became the Senior Director of Reactor Operations at the University of Missouri Research Reactor, which presented an exciting new opportunity, not just because it was closer to home, but because of the unique chance to help support an older reactor and pave the way for building a new one.
How does your work differ now compared to when you were working on the power generation side?
There’s a big difference between the power generation side and the research reactor side. Power generation is highly regulated and focused on consistency, everything must be precise and identical to maintain safety and reliability.
At the research reactor, however, the focus shifts to experimentation. We irradiate materials for research, medical purposes, and even things like archaeological studies.
The shift from energy generation to research and medicine was a major change for me. It’s more agile, allowing for a wider range of experiments, which makes the work less predictable but equally rewarding.
One key initiative we’re working on now is building a new research reactor to complement the existing one, expanding our capabilities in producing medical isotopes, which are crucial in cancer treatment.
What have been some of the standout moments in your career?
One standout moment was gaining my Senior Reactor Operator (SRO) license.
That was a big milestone and a rigorous process that laid the foundation for my career growth in nuclear operations.
Another significant challenge was leading Comanche Peak through its probation for accreditation of the training program.
Ensuring the quality of training and linking it directly to the plant’s performance was a pivotal experience for me, and it taught me the critical importance of high standards in the nuclear field.
More recently, the transition to the University of Missouri Research Reactor has allowed me to contribute directly to the medical side of nuclear, which is incredibly fulfilling.
From producing isotopes for cancer treatment to supporting advanced research projects, the impact of my work feels very tangible.
What are the biggest challenges currently facing the nuclear industry?
One major challenge is that the industry is experimenting with numerous technologies, from small modular reactors (SMRs) to nano reactors.
While innovation is exciting, the diversity of designs can complicate the regulatory and operational landscape. Unlike past decades, when most plants shared a standard design, today’s reactors are a mix of different concepts, making supply chains, licensing, and operational consistency much more complex.
There’s also a significant talent gap.
Many experienced professionals retired during the downturn in the nuclear sector, and now that interest is reviving, we’re struggling to find qualified candidates.
This has shifted the focus from hiring for experience to hiring for potential—seeking individuals who can learn quickly and adapt to the varied roles that modern nuclear projects require.
What skills are in the highest demand in the nuclear industry?
Instrumentation and Controls (I&C) are areas where we see the greatest demand, but also the hardest to fill. It’s not a flashy career, and fewer people are getting into it, which creates a gap.
Another critical need is for people who are cross-disciplinary.
We need technical experts who can bridge the gap between theory and hands-on work, people who can weld, understand reactivity, and handle complex systems. The ability to be versatile is key in this industry, especially in roles that demand both technical knowledge and practical skills.
Looking forward, what advice would you give to those entering the nuclear industry?
Don’t be afraid to take risks and jump at opportunities, even if they seem intimidating.
Many times, I’ve found myself taking on challenges that scared me, but each one pushed me forward. For instance, I interviewed for my Senior Reactor Operator role when I was nine months pregnant.
It was tough, but it was an opportunity I couldn’t let slip by, and I’ve never regretted pushing myself in that way.
Another important lesson is to trust your instincts.
There will be times when you’re not in the right place or not being as effective as you could be.
Recognizing when to move on, while also striving to make a positive impact wherever you are, is crucial for long-term growth and satisfaction in your career.
Interested in sharing your insights for Astute’s People Powered Profile series?
If you’d like to take part in Astute’s People Powered Profile series, get in touch with Dan Bisset today.
