Celebrating Excellence Across the Nuclear Industry
At the 2026 Nuclear Energy Conference & Expo (NECX) in Dallas, industry leaders and innovators will be recognized for their outstanding contributions to advancing nuclear energy through innovation, leadership, technology, and public service.
NECX proudly highlights individuals and teams helping shape the future of the nuclear industry.
While nomination and submission deadlines for 2026 have now passed, award recipients will be recognized and celebrated onsite during NECX, Aug. 24â27 in Dallas, TX.
Top Innovative Practice (TIP) Award
NEIâs Top Innovative Practice (TIP) Awards are the nuclear energy industryâs highest honor for innovation.
The awards recognize individuals and teams from NEI member utilities who have implemented transferable new practices or significantly improved processes, technologies, or equipment within the past three years.
The Best of the Best TIP Award winners will be recognized live during NECX.
Walter H. Zinn Medal
Presented by the American Nuclear Society, the Walter H. Zinn Medal recognizes an individual for outstanding contributions to the advancement or implementation of nuclear technology.
As one of ANSâs highest honors, the award celebrates leadership, technical achievement, and lasting impact on the nuclear industry.
Henry DeWolf Smyth Nuclear Statesman Award (ANS/NEI joint award)
Jointly presented by ANS and NEI, the Henry DeWolf Smyth Nuclear Statesman Award honors individuals who have made statesmanlike contributions across the many facets of nuclear energy activities.
The award recognizes leadership that has strengthened the nuclear industry through policy, advocacy, collaboration, and public service.
Join the Industry in Celebrating Excellence
NECX brings together the full nuclear ecosystem to recognize the people, innovations, and leadership driving the industry forward.
Join industry leaders, innovators, policymakers, engineers, researchers, utilities, and suppliers in Dallas this August as we celebrate excellence across the nuclear energy sector.