James, a manager in the security systems sector at Hinkley Point C, tells us about his journey in the nuclear sector so far — a combination of seizing opportunities and adapting to new challenges. Here's a look at his career path and insights into the nuclear industry's unique opportunities.

James didn't always know he'd end up in the nuclear sector. After completing college, James found himself at a crossroads, unsure of his future career path. He had a keen interest in IT, particularly networking, which led him to further his studies in this field. However, it was an unexpected opportunity that truly set his career in motion.

"I applied for an apprenticeship at a small company in Bridgwater that specialised in security systems," James explains. This decision, driven partly by curiosity and the appeal of gaining practical experience, turned out to be a pivotal moment. For the next eight years, he honed his skills in the local area, gaining valuable hands-on experience.

The turning point in James's career came when a position opened up at Hinkley Point C, a major nuclear power station project. "It was an opportunity I couldn't pass up," he says. A series of meetings with the programme's director and his prospective manager solidified his interest and secured him the role. This move marked the beginning of his journey into the nuclear sector, a field he hadn't initially considered.

James credits much of his career progression to this opportunity, highlighting the importance of being open to new fields and industries. "It was more luck than anything," he admits. "The job came up, and I thought, 'Why not?' It was a chance to get into a field I never thought about before, which has turned into a very rewarding career."

Being based near a major project like Hinkley Point C certainly provided James with unique opportunities. However, he emphasises that distance should not deter others from pursuing similar roles. "There are plenty of people on site who commute from far away, with accommodations often covered," he notes. The industry supports relocation, ensuring that talent isn't restricted by geography.

James's career at Hinkley Point C has been marked by steady progression. Starting as a junior engineer, he quickly advanced to full-time engineer, then supervisor, and now manages the service team. Over seven years, he has built a team of eight, including engineers and apprentices, reflecting his commitment to developing new talent.

In his current role, James oversees a wide range of responsibilities. "We handle everything from distributing workload and managing service calls to maintaining critical systems like access control and emergency broadcasts," he explains. These systems are crucial for ensuring the safety and security of the site's operations, demonstrating the vital behind-the-scenes work that keeps everything running smoothly.

James's role showcases the diverse opportunities within the nuclear sector, beyond the typical images of scientists and engineers in lab coats. The sector offers a wide array of careers, from IT and communications to marketing and security, all contributing to the overall mission of nuclear projects.

One of the unique aspects of working in security within the nuclear sector is the exposure to cutting-edge technologies. "We see a lot of innovations that are essential for such high-security sites," James shares. This exposure not only enhances his skills but also prepares him for future opportunities in an industry that values advanced security measures.

As the Hinkley Point C project moves towards completion, James is already looking to the future. With the nuclear industry poised for growth, projects like Sizewell C are on the horizon, offering new challenges and opportunities. "I'm interested in continuing to work on large projects," James says, highlighting the industry's ongoing expansion and the transferability of skills gained on major sites like Hinkley Point.

Reflecting on his journey, James offers valuable advice to those considering a career in the nuclear sector: "Go for it! If I could have entered this industry sooner, I would have. The nuclear sector is growing and offers so many opportunities for career development."

James's story is a testament to the potential of the nuclear industry to provide rewarding and diverse career paths. His journey from an apprentice to a manager demonstrates that with the right mix of opportunity, willingness to adapt, and a bit of luck, a fulfilling career in this vital sector is well within reach.