From October 28–30, the University of Utah’s John and Marcia Price College of Engineering and the Utah Nuclear Engineering Program (UNEP) hosted members of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Board on Nuclear, Clean Energy, Power and Facilities Codes and Standards (BNCS) for a three-day meeting on campus. The event was an important opportunity for students and faculty to engage directly with the national leaders shaping the future of engineering standards.
The event, organized by Professor and UNEP Director Supathorn Phongikaroon, underscored the University’s growing role as a hub for collaboration between academia and industry. Hosting such a prominent ASME board meeting on campus highlights the national recognition of Utah’s contributions to nuclear and clean energy innovation.
Dean Charles Musgrave welcomed the ASME board and emphasized the importance of experiential learning and multidisciplinary engagement across the Price College of Engineering.
One of the sessions placed students at the center of the action. The presidents of the student chapters of ASCE and ANS presented directly to the board, offering student perspectives on engineering education and workforce readiness. Students from mechanical, electrical, and civil and environmental engineering then presented their research during a poster session, where ASME board members met with them to discuss their projects and career paths. Throughout the day, students were invited to observe the BNCS meeting, witnessing firsthand how industry experts deliberate and make decisions that shape global engineering standards.
The collaboration reflects the University of Utah’s commitment to connecting students with real-world engineering leaders and advancing the shared goal of safe, sustainable, and innovative energy systems.