September 30, 2024 - Exploring the Future of Nuclear Science at Redwood High School

An exhilarating benefit of working in the tech industry in the San Francisco Bay Area is our proximity to schools whose motivated student bodies consistently push the bounds of education. Fresh perspectives and new energy are essential to broaden dialogue and inspire those in the industry - seasoned professional or not.

BNC is excited to support the Redwood Nuclear Club at local Redwood High School. It’s because of organizations like this one that we are reminded that involved student bodies are the true origins of innovation. Rex Riedel, the co-president, provided us with the following write-up that details the purpose, collaboration and activities of the Redwood Nuclear Club.

At Redwood High School, a group of students is taking a deep dive into the world of nuclear science. The Redwood High School Nuclear Club, co-led by Rex Riedel and Lillian Merrill, offers students a unique opportunity to engage with nuclear technology, explore its applications, and learn directly from industry professionals.

Over the coming months, they will explore the practical aspects of nuclear science through hands-on experiments, informative sessions, and field trips.

What They Do

The Redwood Nuclear Club provides students with experiences that few high schoolers have access to. Members engage in a variety of exciting experiments, including working with cloud chambers to visualize radiation particles, conducting radiation surveys, and exploring nuclear science. These activities provide an understanding of nuclear science and help combat common misconceptions about the industry.

The club also maintains close connections with professionals in the nuclear field. Through partnerships with the Berkeley Nucleonics Corporation (BNC) and the American Nuclear Society (ANS), club members are provided with valuable resources, including but not limited to, cloud chambers, Geiger counters, online courses, webinars, and publications about nuclear science. BNC, headquartered just minutes from the school, offers hands-on training with cutting-edge detection technology, exposing students to real-world nuclear science.

Collaborations and Tours

In addition to its educational focus, the Nuclear Club has built strong relationships with several nuclear organizations. Thanks to these partnerships, members have the opportunity to visit top-tier nuclear facilities, including UC Berkeley’s School of Nuclear Engineering and Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant. These tours offer students first-hand insight into the operations of nuclear power plants, research labs, and training facilities—places where the future of energy is being shaped.

Connecting with the American Nuclear Society

One of the club’s key objectives is to raise awareness about nuclear science and its role in the future of energy. With the support of the ANS, Redwood’s Nuclear Club stays connected with the latest advancements in nuclear technology. The club integrates ANS’s newsletters and publications into their meetings, keeping members informed about breakthroughs in nuclear research. Additionally, the ANS provides the club with access to materials that help students expand their knowledge beyond the classroom.

Engaging with the Community

The Nuclear Club is not just about learning—it’s about forming a community of like-minded students who share a passion for science and engineering. Club members actively engage in discussions about the challenges facing the nuclear industry. They also address public misconceptions about nuclear energy, encouraging open dialogue about its potential as a sustainable energy source.

By working together, club members can brainstorm solutions to these challenges, preparing them to be the next generation of innovators in the nuclear field.

Looking Ahead

With a packed schedule of meetings, experiments, and field trips, the Redwood Nuclear Club promises to be an exciting hub of activity. Upcoming meetings will include building and experimenting with cloud chambers, building and installing the DoseNet system, and learning from Berkeley Nucleonics experts in hands-on training sessions as well as a plethora of online courses provided by BNC. The club’s leadership team ensures that each meeting is packed with educational value and collaborative spirit.

The Redwood Nuclear Club is more than just a school club—it’s an opportunity for students to be at the forefront of nuclear innovation. Through hands-on learning, professional connections, and an emphasis on community engagement, Redwood High School’s Nuclear Club is preparing its members for bright futures in the nuclear industry. The enthusiasm and dedication of these young scientists are a testament to the bright future of nuclear energy.