Name:
Erin Ward
Education/Certifications:
- Bachelor of Science in Banking and Finance; The University of Southern Mississippi
- Master of Business Administration; Belhaven University
Employment (Company and Position):
Entergy, Sr. Project Controls Specialist
Why did you choose the nuclear field or how did you end up in the nuclear field?
I entered the nuclear industry somewhat by happenstance. My brother happened to meet and speak with someone who worked for Entergy Nuclear at the time and felt my brother would be a good fit. While my brother ultimately decided that path wasn’t for him, he connected me with that individual – and the rest is history. I am deeply grateful to my brother for making that connection and opening the door to what has become a meaningful and rewarding career opportunity thus far.
What do you think is the most important benefit of nuclear science, technology, or energy and why?
It’s difficult to choose just one or the most important, but I think the fact that nuclear energy is safe and operates 24/7 to provide electricity to our homes and communities is the most important. Not to mention that with Nuclear, a little goes such a long way in regard to the amount of fuel that’s needed and used to produce a great amount of energy.
Is there something about your job that most people are surprised to hear?
People are not surprised when they hear what I do at my job, because I’ve always worked with numbers and indirectly “project” management for the majority of my adult life. I think the most surprising or “shock value” would be when I tell people I work on the nuclear side of Entergy. I always laugh to myself when they’re so impressed and think that I’m just this super smart person when they hear the word nuclear. I know that in a lot of cases it’s due to people not truly knowing what nuclear is, as well as the negative stigma associated with the word but, it gives me an opportunity to educate on the benefits of and just how unique nuclear is.
What advice do you have for women in the nuclear field?
Although I still consider myself early in my journey as a woman in the nuclear field, my advice comes from both reflection and intention. To the women who came before me in nuclear, please continue pouring into others. Share your stories – the challenges, the victories, and everything in between. Your transparency and mentorship create pathways and possibilities for the next generation. To those still finding their footing, like me: stay open. Be willing to learn, be challenged, and step outside of your comfort zone. Seek mentorship, get involved in Employee Resource Groups and organizations like U.S. Women in Nuclear, and don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. You never know which door will open when you do.
What is your favorite work memory or accomplishment?
I work at our Nuclear Headquarters; however, the sites and HDQs Project Controls Organization operate as one team. As a result, consistent communication and collaboration across our fleet is essential. To foster connection, team building and recognition we would hold monthly “PCO Top Dog” celebrations. Each month, team members nominate a colleague to be the “PCO Top Dog” because of their contributions and/or work that they’re doing. The selected individual would get a certificate and a hot dog trophy, and the achievement is celebrated across the fleet during a hot dog luncheon during which the winner is announced. I was truly surprised and honored when my name was announced as the winner. The recognition is a favorite memory of mine, as I had often questioned whether my contributions were truly making an impact and, at times, felt discouraged. That moment was deeply motivating – it reinvigorated my commitment, encouraged me to work even harder, and reinforced my desire to continue learning and contribute in meaningful ways.
What is your favorite aspect of U.S. WIN?
Community outreach and the opportunities I get to engage with students and individuals, educating them about nuclear science and careers.
