Duke Energy’s Pitesa to be Nuclear Energy Institute’s Chief Nuclear Officer

John W. Pitesa, who currently serves as Duke Energy’s senior vice president and chief nuclear officer, will join the Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) as chief nuclear officer starting in December.

Pitesa oversees all aspects of NEI’s nuclear operations including used fuel programs, emergency planning, environmental protection, risk assessment, radiation safety and fuel and materials safety. He joins the organization as a loaned executive from Duke Energy.

“I am thrilled that Bill is joining the NEI team,” Maria Korsnick, president and CEO of NEI, said. “Bill’s experience will help the industry progress the high standards with which we operate today’s nuclear fleet as we develop the nuclear fleet of tomorrow. Nuclear power generation is vital to our economy and a critical component of America’s infrastructure.”

NEI Vice President Joe Pollock has served as interim Chief Nuclear Officer since January. Pollock will return to his position as vice president of nuclear generation, a role he has held since 2013.

“This is a critical time for the U.S. nuclear industry and I’m excited to join NEI,” Pitesa said. “Nuclear energy provides fuel diversity, supports national security, creates great jobs and is the largest contributor to the nation’s clean air power. I look forward to joining a talented team dedicated to ensuring the country’s nuclear fleet continues to operate safely and efficiently.”