 Douglas
Osborn
Research Scientist and Risk
Analyst
Sandia National Laboratories
Albuquerque, NM
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 B.S.
Chemical Engineering, The Ohio State University
M.S.
Nuclear Engineering, The Ohio State University |
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Doug is a research
scientist and risk analyst for the safe and secure transport and
packaging of nuclear materials. |
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I feel that nuclear power can provide a complementary niche within the
energy demands of the United States. Being a nuclear engineer allows me
the ability to promote a safe, secure, and clean energy supply. |
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I highly suggest that students earn graduate level degrees, and
pay special attention to their communication skills. Your
writing and speaking abilities will become very important once
you enter the workforce. Also try to intern or co-op with
companies that deal with nuclear issues. |
Q:
What was your college experience like?
Osborn:
Prior to entering college, I spent 6-years in the
US Navy, so being a nontraditional student offered me a unique
perspective. While attending college, I also worked 20-30 hours a week
at a research facility. With a full course load and a busy work
schedule, I learned to value my time off. I was able develop close
friendships with my classmates in chemical and nuclear engineering as
well as those outside my profession.
Q:
Did you co-op while you were an undergrad?
Osborn:
I worked 20-30 hours a week as an undergrad for a
university research facility. During my years as a graduate student I
worked 20-30 hours a week at Battelle Memorial Institute.
Q:
How did you get your first job?
Osborn:
A position in Sandia National Laboratories opened
for a risk analyst for the transport and packing of nuclear materials,
and my prior work experience at Battelle Memorial Institute was exactly
what they were looking for in a new hire. The job meets my skills and
allows me the ability to expand my knowledge in nuclear engineering and
affords me the ability to become an industry expert.
Q:
What's the most rewarding thing about being a Nuclear Engineer?
Osborn:
I feel that nuclear power can provide a
complementary niche within the energy demands of the United States.
Being a nuclear engineer allows me the ability to promote a safe,
secure, and clean energy supply.
Q:
Do you spend a fair amount of time traveling?
Osborn:
It appears that it comes in cycles. When I first
started working, I didn't travel much. However, over the past 6 months
I've traveled one to two times a month. While on travel, I spend 2-5
days away from home. My travels don't always take me to exotic places,
but it does allow me to meet others within the nuclear industry.
Q:
Do you have a mentor? Or did you in your college years?
Osborn:
I currently have Dr. Ruth Weiner as a mentor. She
has provided me with invaluable knowledge and advice. Her experiences
have provided me an insight into past, current, and future conditions of
the nuclear industry.
Q:
Do you find yourself working more in a team situation, or more alone?
Osborn:
I'd say my work is split about 50-50 when it comes
to working alone or with a team.
Q:
Do you find you are able to balance work with social/family life while
working in your current job?
Osborn:
I work to live; I don't live to work. I have the
ability to enjoy most of my weekends, but there are times when deadlines
and travel will interfere with your time off and this is expected when
you live the life of a professional.
Q:
If you had to do it all over again, would you still become a Nuclear
Engineer?
Osborn:
I am very happy with my current position, and my
experiences.
Q:
Did you think that school prepared you for the way the work gets done in
the real world?
Osborn:
College and my naval experience did prepare me for
work in the real world. My technical and engineering knowledge were well
developed, but my writing abilities were somewhat lacking.
Q:
Where do you see jobs for Nuclear Engineers in the future? What should
students be doing to prepare themselves to take on those roles?
Osborn:
When Yucca Mountain opens and electric companies
start buying new generation nuclear power plants, my profession will
start going by leaps and bounds. Until then and with the majority of
nuclear engineers nearing retirement age, there will be some growth
throughout the industry. Students should not be just satisfied with just
a Bachelors degree. Earning your Masters or PhD will open more career
paths within the nuclear engineering profession.
Q:
What other advice do you have for students?
Osborn:
I highly suggest that students earn graduate level
degrees, and pay special attention to their communication skills. Your
writing and speaking abilities will become very important once you enter
the workforce. Also try to intern or co-op with companies that deal with
nuclear issues. The co-ops and internships will provide you with vital
experience that may ultimately separate you from others when applying
for your first position. Don't worry about starting your career before
25; spend a few extra years preparing yourself and maturing so that you
can be a true and respected professional when you enter the workforce.
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