Angela Burkhart
Nuclear Engineering Director, New Nuclear Generation
Duke Energy
Angela Burkhart, PE, leads strategic development of new nuclear initiatives across Duke Energy's six electric service territories, driving the advancement of safe, reliable and clean nuclear energy. She plays a critical role in shaping nuclear deployment strategies by collaborating with state, academic and industry leaders to leverage technological advancements and enhance workforce preparedness, ensuring the integration of advanced nuclear technologies.
Burkhart joined Duke Energy in 2000 as a reactor engineer at Oconee Nuclear Station near Senaca, S.C., the largest site in Duke Energy’s fleet. During her 26-year tenure, she has served Duke Energy in many operational roles, including shift technical advisor, shift manager and senior license holder. Her leadership was instrumental in instilling permanent organizational improvements at Oconee. Before assuming her current role in 2024, she served as a corporate functional area manager, responsible for nuclear fleet engineering governance and oversight for all six sites.
Burkhart uses her passion for nuclear energy to not only demonstrate deep technical expertise but also unite stakeholders with different needs, priorities and expectations. She currently serves as an industry advisor for the North Carolina Nuclear Advisory Council, North Carolina State University’s Research Reactor, North Carolina State University’s Center for Nuclear Energy Facilities and Structures, Purdue University’s Nuclear Research Infrastructure Revitalization Program and University of South Carolina’s Advanced Nuclear Forum.
Burkhart has a Bachelor of Science degree in nuclear engineering from Purdue University. She is also a registered professional engineer in South Carolina and held a federal senior reactor operator license at Oconee.
Burkhart lives in Seneca, S.C., with her husband and three children – Chelsea (19), Alex (18) and Audrey (15) – and one of her hobbies is officiating swim meets.
