From trainee to Junior Chain Manager: Nwankwo on his growth journey at NRG PALLAS
At NRG PALLAS, you’re given the space to explore, grow, and truly make an impact. A great example of that is Nwankwo: he started as a trainee and now works as a Junior Chain Manager for short-lived isotopes. In this article, he shares his experience from his unexpected introduction to NRG PALLAS to the meaningful impact he now makes in the nuclear field.
From Delft to the nuclear world
After earning his Bachelor’s in Aerospace Engineering at TU Delft, Nwankwo was introduced to nuclear technology for the first time. “During my Master’s in Complex Systems Engineering and Management, I chose an elective in Nuclear Science and Engineering. I found it so fascinating that I immediately knew: I have to work in this field.”
Still, he ended up at NRG PALLAS by chance: “At the Delft Career Days, I was in a meeting with another company and nearly fell asleep. When I mentioned I wanted to work in nuclear, they said, ‘NRG PALLAS is just across the room.’ I walked straight over and instantly knew: this is where I want to be.”
Why the traineeship was the perfect fit
What attracted him to the traineeship? “The freedom to work on projects across different departments. I didn’t yet know what kind of work would suit me, so the traineeship gave me the chance to find out.”
He worked on projects like the Nuclear Innovation Conference and the Personal Leadership Program. “Those were definite highlights. You learn so much here by simply doing. You’re given the space to make mistakes, ask questions, and carve your own path — all within an open, supportive culture.”
The move to Junior Chain Manager
Today, Nwankwo works as a Junior Chain Manager for short-lived isotopes. “The great thing is, I already knew many people from the traineeship. That really helps, because my role involves coordinating across many departments.”
Although he discovered his interest in chain management relatively late, the transition felt natural. “Thanks to the network I built during the traineeship, I was able to move quickly and take the next step.”
No such thing as a typical workday
For Nwankwo, no two days are the same — and that’s exactly what he enjoys. “In chain management, we ensure the entire chain keeps running, from customer contact to irradiation. At the same time, we work on process optimization.”
This involves lots of interaction with colleagues, visiting the reactor and labs, developing proposals, and exploring new possibilities. “That variety keeps things exciting.”
What makes working at NRG PALLAS special
“The helpfulness of colleagues really stands out. You can reach out to anyone — whether you need an explanation, advice, or someone to brainstorm with.”
In his current role, what brings him the most joy is seeing the tangible impact of his work. “I can clearly see the results of what I do, and that’s incredibly motivating.”
Growth on a professional and personal level
During his traineeship, Nwankwo gained not only technical knowledge but also grew personally. “Communication, time management, team dynamics, you don’t learn those at university, but here you get the time, space, and guidance to develop those skills.”
He also followed a course on PWR reactors. “But most of what I learned came directly from colleagues by getting involved and asking lots of questions.”
His advice for those in doubt
For anyone still hesitating about the traineeship, he has clear advice: “Just go for it! Especially if you’re interested in nuclear but don’t yet know exactly what you want. You don’t need a background in nuclear, curiosity and enthusiasm will take you far.”
A memory that makes him smile
One of his favorite memories is the traineeship trip to Wunderland, an amusement park located on the site of a former nuclear power plant. “I used to go there with my family as a kid — how cool to visit again with my colleagues. Inside the old cooling tower, there’s even a swing ride. Everyone rushed to the rollercoaster afterward, except Alex, who said, ‘You guys go ahead, I want to check out the museum again!’”
The personal impact of his work
What touches him most in his work? “My grandfather was once treated with isotopes produced in this very reactor. He has since passed away, but the idea that I now contribute to delivering that same type of care moves me deeply. I’m grateful to do this work.”
Curious about the traineeship or opportunities at NRG PALLAS?
Discover more at: werkenbijnrgpallas.nl
