From Fukushima to Hinkley: An Engineer’s Journey into Nuclear
The nuclear sector is entering a new chapter, driven by ambitious climate goals, energy security needs, and a growing demand for technical skills. At the heart of this transformation are the people bringing it to life, often with stories as compelling as the infrastructure they help build.
In this episode of Rullion Reflections, Sibel Akel, Rullion’s Marketing Director, speaks with Juliette Martin, a Plant Layout Engineer at Hinkley Point C (HPC). They cover everything from Juliette’s international upbringing to her current role on one of Europe’s most iconic nuclear projects. This blog dives into their conversation, exploring what makes nuclear such a rewarding (and often misunderstood), career path, particularly for engineers, women, and early-career professionals.
A Global Start, a Local Impact
Juliette’s story begins in Japan and Hong Kong, where she spent much of her childhood. She experienced the aftershocks of the Fukushima disaster as a young girl, though at the time, she says, she didn’t fully grasp the scale of it.
Her interest in science and climate came later, sparked by visiting researchers who spoke at her school in Hong Kong. Their work, collecting plankton samples by sailboat to study climate change, caught her imagination. That moment set her on a course toward engineering.
After studying in France, Juliette joined an energy-focused school in Grenoble. There, a nuclear introductory course changed everything. “After the first lesson, I was hooked,” she says. Passionate lecturers and access to real-world projects made the subject come alive. The school’s location in a hub of nuclear research and development only deepened her interest.
Landing a role at EDF
Juliette’s first industry experience came via France’s VIE (Volontariat International en Entreprise) programme - a government initiative that places young professionals abroad. It was her way into EDF and, ultimately, into the UK nuclear sector.
She joined Hinkley Point C as part of the technical team supporting construction. “I wanted something hands-on, something on-site,” she says. “This was the perfect fit.”
Working inside the heart of the plant, what Juliette calls “the guts”, she helps ensure components are installed correctly. Additionally, she supports repair decisions, and contributes to equipment readiness. It’s a job that gives her a front-row seat to one of the most complex builds in Europe.
A Project the Size of a City
With more than 14,000 people working around the clock, HPC is its own ecosystem. For Juliette, the scale of it all reveals just how many paths exist within the industry.
“There are roles and services here you’d never expect to find on a construction site,” she explains.
“There’s a huge mix of backgrounds and companies. The opportunities are endless.”
One of her favourite memories comes not from a milestone lift or technical challenge, but from an internal initiative. Her manager encouraged the women in her team to enter the Fem’Energia awards, which recognise women in the nuclear industry. Together, 11 women formed a team and submitted an application. “It was like building a football squad,” she jokes.
But it was more than a submission. It became a rare chance to slow down, connect, and share stories. “We never usually have time for that. It brought us closer.”
A Voice for Women in Nuclear
Juliette’s involvement in the sector goes far beyond her day job. She’s a European representative for Women in Nuclear’s Young Generation group, helping to connect and support members across the continent. Through this work, she’s organised webinars, shared career opportunities, and mentored young people exploring the industry.
That advocacy work also led to a surprise invitation to speak at a nuclear finance event in New York. “It was completely unexpected,” she says. “I’d met someone from the IAEA in Vienna who was impressed by our presence as young women on site. Six months later, I got the call.”
Despite nerves, the experience was a success. “I was stressed at first, but once I was up there, it felt like just another meeting room. Afterwards though, I was shaking!”
Changing Perceptions, One Conversation at a Time
Juliette is well aware of the public perception challenges nuclear faces. She believes soft skills are as important as technical expertise when it comes to changing hearts and minds.
“We need to show people the human side of nuclear,” she says. “We’re not villains from a film. We’re professionals doing work that matters.”
She prefers conversation over confrontation. “If people have questions, I answer them. But sometimes, I don’t even mention nuclear straight away. I just say I work on a construction site. And when people find out it’s nuclear, they’re often surprised - in a good way.”
Looking Ahead
When asked about the future of nuclear, Juliette’s optimistic. She sees more innovation, more global partnerships, and more opportunities for young professionals.
“There’s a lot happening in France - support for start-ups, international deals like the one with India. There’s real momentum,” she says. “And not just for engineers. We need people from all backgrounds; mechanical, HR, policy, and welding. Everyone has a role to play.”
If she had a magic wand? “I’d build more plants. Everywhere. Everyone needs energy.”
Powered by People
Juliette credits much of her success to the mentors and managers who guided her. “My first manager was calm and thoughtful. The next was technical and passionate. Now I work with two incredibly strong women who support me and lead by example.”
In a sector often seen as closed-off or male-dominated, stories like Juliette’s remind us that nuclear is changing, and that people like her are leading the charge.
Conclusion
Juliette Martin’s journey shows what’s possible when opportunity and passion meet. From her early interest in climate science to working inside the UK's biggest nuclear project, her story is one of purpose, resilience, and people.
Explore more insights from Rullion Reflections or get in touch to see how we can help you build a future-ready workforce. Watch the full interview below: 🔗 Connect with Juliette Martin on LinkedIn 🔗 Connect with Sibel from Rullion on LinkedIn
