Supathorn Phongikaroon, Professor and Energy Solutions Presidential Endowed Chair, and Director of the Nuclear Engineering Program (UNEP), recently participated in the Nuclear Engineering Department Heads Organization (NEDHO) Day on Capitol Hill. This annual event brings together academic leaders in nuclear engineering from across the country to engage directly with federal policymakers on issues shaping the future of nuclear energy, research funding, and workforce development.

During the visit, Phongikaroon met with Senator John Curtis to discuss the role of the University of Utah’s Nuclear Engineering Program in advancing nuclear innovation and supporting Utah’s growing energy needs. Their conversation highlighted the importance of nuclear energy as a reliable, low-carbon power source and its potential to strengthen the state’s energy security and economic development.

The meeting also underscored UNEP’s contributions to educating the next generation of engineers and researchers, positioning Utah as a key player in the evolving nuclear energy landscape. Engagements like this help ensure that academic expertise informs policy decisions while strengthening partnerships between universities and government leaders.

Participation in NEDHO’s Capitol Hill day reflects UNEP’s commitment to national leadership in nuclear engineering and reinforces the importance of continued investment in nuclear technologies as part of a diversified and sustainable energy strategy.