OPG’s Matthew Mairinger takes his passion for nuclear energy global
Matthew Mairinger has always been passionate about nuclear power.
It’s a passion that not only inspires his colleagues at OPG, but also serves as inspiration for many young nuclear professionals in Canada and around the world.
In his nine years at the company, Mairinger has worked in a variety of departments, including Project Controls, Minor Modifications, Reactor Safety, Stakeholder Relations, and Performance Engineering.
He now works as a Business Analyst in Strategic Initiatives and Oversight, a new group within OPG’s Nuclear Sustainability Services.
Outside of his day job, Mairinger is a fervent advocate for nuclear energy and the impact his generation of young professionals can have on the industry’s future.
In May, he was elected to the presidency position of the North American Young Generation in Nuclear (NAYGN), becoming the non-profit group’s first-ever Canadian in the position. The NAYGN presidency is a three-year position; after a one-year term as vice-president, Mairinger will move to the role of president for a year, and then will serve a final year as the past-president.
“When you’ve been in a reactor, have worn the plastic suit and have been next to the nuclear core, you are able to educate the public with confidence and say, ‘I know nuclear energy is safe because I’ve been there.’”Matthew Mairinger
Before being elected, Mairinger actively contributed within NAYGN’s Durham chapter and on the NAYGN board for four years as the Canadian Operating Officer. There, he advocated for young professionals’ development in the energy industry while educating the public about the power of nuclear.
“As a young engineer, you can’t always receive access to opportunities for learning and professional development,” he said. “You can’t necessarily see how fuel is made, or have an opportunity to tour a facility. NAYGN bridges the gap between young professionals and the energy industry to empower the future nuclear leaders of tomorrow.”
Through NAYGN, Mairinger has also been able to attend rallies and connect with the community and politicians to help influence change.
His technical background at OPG is now helping him educate and inform communities across Canada, with his work in Nuclear Sustainability Services allowing him to explain to the public how nuclear by-products are managed, as well as de-stigmatize the perceptions around radiation.
“When you’ve been in a reactor, have worn the plastic suit and have been next to the nuclear core, you are able to educate the public with confidence and say, ‘I know nuclear energy is safe because I’ve been there. I’ve seen fuel pellets being manufactured and I’ve stood next to spent fuel in Dry Storage Containers,’” he said.
Since joining NAYGN, Mairinger has been able to take a bigger-picture view of his work at OPG and his role in the industry.
“Everything comes together, everything’s important. It’s more than just our day-to-day job. What we do actually makes a difference in the world.”
Fun facts about Matt
- When he isn’t advocating for nuclear power, Matt enjoys windsurfing or surfing on Lake Ontario. He also enjoys going to the beach and travelling.
- Matt’s favourite book is Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman.
- His other hobbies include running, curling and baseball.
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