In the rapidly evolving world of nuclear energy, innovation isn’t only found in labs and reactor design—it’s also found in classrooms, campus labs, and summer programs that empower the next generation. Few people understand this better than Lisa Marshall.
As the President of the American Nuclear Society and Director of Outreach, Retention, and Engagement at North Carolina State University’s Department of Nuclear Engineering, Lisa Marshall is leading a movement to transform how we educate, inspire, and retain nuclear talent. In the latest episode of The Future of Nuclear podcast, Lisa joined host Phil Zeringue for a conversation that was equal parts insight, empathy, and vision.
Her message was clear: a sustainable future for nuclear energy begins by nurturing curiosity, building community, and creating environments where every student can thrive.
From Geography to Nuclear: A Path Fueled by Purpose
Lisa’s own journey into nuclear wasn’t linear. With an academic background in geography—a discipline focused on the relationship between people, space, and technology—Lisa didn’t come from a traditional engineering pipeline. Instead, it was a single class that combined technical insight with societal relevance that first lit the spark for her nuclear interest.
That spark became a calling.
When she arrived at NC State, she wasn’t hired for her nuclear expertise. She was hired for her ability to advise, build programs, and create community. What followed was two decades of transformational leadership in nuclear education—leadership that emphasized inclusion, mentorship, and mission-driven learning.
“I always ask myself: how do I create an environment for students to thrive?” Lisa says. “It’s not just about curriculum—it’s about building confidence, allowing failure, and showing them that they belong.”
Building the Pipeline—And the Ecosystem Around It
One of Lisa’s most powerful contributions is her holistic view of education. To her, it’s not just about getting more students into nuclear engineering programs—it’s about building what she calls an “ecosystem of engagement” that starts well before college and continues long after graduation.
“We lose kids in middle school, even earlier,” she explains. “They don’t see themselves in STEM, and by the time they get to high school, it can be too late.”
That’s why Lisa’s programs focus on continuous touchpoints: three-week summer residential camps, immersive first-year projects like the “Nuclear Probe Project,” and long-distance trips to nuclear training facilities. The goal is to connect students with real-world experiences that humanize nuclear technology and demonstrate its impact in energy, medicine, security, and beyond.
This philosophy is deeply rooted in belonging. “An NC State engineering degree shows you have the technical skills,” Lisa explains. “But companies want to know: Can you collaborate? Will you ask for help? Are you mission-driven?”
Beyond Soft Skills: Fostering Professionalism and Resilience
One of the most powerful takeaways from Lisa’s episode is her emphasis on “professional skills”—not “soft skills.” For Lisa, communication, collaboration, and emotional intelligence aren’t nice-to-haves; they’re essential tools for leadership in the nuclear workforce.
She challenges students to leave their comfort zones—not just to grow, but to prepare themselves for a career in an industry that’s increasingly diverse, interdisciplinary, and globally relevant.
Through her work with ANS, Marshall has created spaces where students build these capabilities early. She credits the society with helping her find her own leadership voice. “I got tricked into going to my first ANS meeting,” she laughs. “But from there, I found my people. It’s where I started giving back.”
That commitment to giving back is now evident in everything she touches—from her classroom teaching to her international work with the OECD. Whether she’s helping students navigate their first engineering project or speaking on behalf of nuclear innovation at global forums, Lisa shows up with the same clarity and purpose.
Global Perspective, Local Passion
Lisa’s identity as a Caribbean Canadian-American adds depth to her global outlook. Her upbringing and education influence how she sees the intersection of science, society, and culture—and how nuclear must evolve to stay relevant.
As a thought leader, she’s involved in global efforts to address nuclear’s role in medicine, agriculture, energy, and security. But as an educator, she’s equally invested in individual growth. “We need relationship builders,” she says. “People who will be there for the long term. Engagement isn’t a one-time thing. It’s the foundation.”
Lisa understands that building a nuclear future isn’t just about innovation—it’s about creating a culture where people feel seen, supported, and inspired to lead.
Go Slow to Go Far: A Leadership Philosophy for the Future
Perhaps the most powerful theme in Lisa’s conversation with Phil Zeringue is her belief in process over position. “It’s the steps we take, not the title at the end,” she says. “We have to make space for curiosity, failure, growth, and connection. That’s how we build a nuclear future that’s innovative, inclusive, and strong.”
This mindset—of intentional leadership, human-centered education, and long-term investment—is exactly what the nuclear sector needs. It’s also why Lisa Marshall is one of the most influential voices in nuclear education today.
At Nuclearn, we are proud to feature her story and share the values she embodies: mentorship, inclusivity, and the power of education to shape a better world.
🎧 Want to hear more from Lisa Marshall?
Visit nuclearn.ai to listen to her full conversation on The Future of Nuclear podcast.
Discover how she’s building the next generation of nuclear leaders—one student, one lesson, and one bold idea at a time.