Her Story
About Kimberly
Kimberly J. Michalesko is a seasoned nuclear industry professional with more than three decades of experience in radiation protection, radioactive material transportation, and nuclear waste management. She began her career after high school by joining the U.S. Air Force, where she served for 10 years in the Medical Corps as a Bioenvironmental Engineering Technician. Her military experience provided a strong foundation in radiation safety and environmental health, which later guided her transition into commercial nuclear power. She has since built an extensive career focused on maintaining safety, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence within highly regulated nuclear environments.
Currently serving as Senior Radioactive Material Shipping Supervisor at Susquehanna Nuclear in Berwick, Pennsylvania, Kimberly is responsible for managing the shipment and disposal of on-site nuclear waste, excluding spent fuel stored at the facility. Her expertise includes radioactive material shipping, hazardous waste management, contract management, emergency management, and regulatory compliance with requirements such as 10 CFR and 49 CFR. Known as a trusted subject matter expert in radioactive material transportation, she oversees shipment planning, waste processing, documentation, and compliance activities while helping ensure the protection of workers, the public, and the environment. She also plays an important role in mentoring and training the next generation of nuclear professionals.
Throughout her career, Kimberly has been recognized for her dedication to innovation, safety, and continuous improvement. She received an Innovator of the Year award for developing cost-saving solutions that supported efficient operations while helping maintain competitive energy pricing. She is an active member of professional organizations including the National Registry of Radiation Protection Technologists (NRRPT) and Women in Nuclear, and she contributes to her community through volunteer work with United Way and tutoring students in physics and mathematics at a local Teen Center. Guided by strong mentorship and a commitment to knowledge sharing, Kimberly continues to make a lasting impact on the nuclear industry through her technical expertise, leadership, and dedication to safety.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kimberly
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to 33 years in the nuclear power industry, including 10 years of service in the Air Force. Over the course of my career, I developed specialized expertise in nuclear waste shipping and regulations under 10 CFR and 49 CFR, becoming a trusted, go-to resource for shipping questions and regulatory reviews. I’m proud to share my knowledge by training the next generation and hope to eventually transition into a training-focused role.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received came from excellent mentors, including Fred Hanafee and Mike Nicka. Their guidance and support helped me successfully transition between different reactor types and grow throughout my career.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women to consider a career in nuclear because there are opportunities for women to succeed and grow in the industry. It is a challenging but highly rewarding career, and with dedication and confidence, you can build a fulfilling future in the field.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
After 33 years in the industry, I see an opportunity to transition into a training role where I can share my knowledge and experience with the next generation. I’m also open to new opportunities that allow me to continue contributing to the field in a meaningful way.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are service, dedication, innovation, and family. I’m passionate about supporting professional organizations like NRRPT and Women in Nuclear, as well as giving back through volunteer work with United Way and a local Teen Center. I’m proud of earning an Innovator of the Year award for finding ways to reduce costs while maintaining low megawatt pricing, and I value the resilience, work ethic, and commitment to family that have shaped both my career and personal life.
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