Women's History Month Spotlight: Caroline Cooley, Radiation Protection Technician

Join us as we spotlight women in the nuclear industry.

One of our previous episodes with Caroline Cooley showcases how she became a radiation protection technician:

My yoga teacher, the tree-hugging radiation protection technician...In this episode of Naked Nuclear, host Danielle speaks with Caroline Cooley, a tree-hugging, Prius-driving, vegetarian yoga teacher who unexpectedly found her way into the nuclear industry as a Radiation Protection Technician.

Caroline shares her journey from corporate America to working alongside her husband in the nuclear field, offering insights into the roles and responsibilities of decontamination workers and radiation protection technicians. They discuss the safety protocols, personal protective equipment used, and the exposure levels to radiation, debunking some common misconceptions about the industry.

Caroline also touches on how her background in yoga helps her remain calm and handle fear in this demanding job. This episode provides a unique look at a non-traditional career path, the evolving diversity in the nuclear industry, and the importance of stringent safety measures. Listeners will also learn about pathways into the field and the potential for travel and financial benefits.00:00 Introduction to Caroline Cooley00:27 Diving into Nuclear Reactors01:00 Getting Started in the Nuclear Industry02:14 Roles and Responsibilities of a Radiation Protection Technician03:31 Safety Measures and Equipment07:03 Radiation Exposure and Monitoring13:11 Career Path and Personal Journey17:54 Diversity and Evolution in the Nuclear Field19:46 Nuclear Safety and Environmental Impact20:51 Yoga and Mindfulness in Nuclear Work22:52 Rapid-Fire Questions and Fun Facts26:20 Final Thoughts and Conclusion

Looking for where to get started as an RP?

Cape Fear Community College Nuclear Technology

https://cfcc.edu/nuclear-technology/

Westinghouse RP Program 

https://westinghousenuclear.com/media/zhdbuk4m/how-to-become-an-rp-technician-2024.pdf

https://westinghousenuclear.com/operating-plants/outage-services/rp-alara/radiation-protection-training/

Wanna learn more about radiation levels?  

Radiation Levels:

https://www.epa.gov/radiation/radiation-sources-and-doses

https://www.energy.gov/ne/articles/5-radioactive-products-we-use-every-day

Sober Spaces at Jam Band Concerts

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/arts/looking-for-sober-friends-at-a-concert-find-the-deadheads-with-a-yellow-balloon