Our History

Young Generation was founded in May 1994 on the initiative of Jan Runermark, then CEO of ABB Atom (today Westinghouse Electric Sweden). The initiative was created in response to an important generational transition within the nuclear industry. Many of the professionals who had contributed to building Sweden’s and Europe’s nuclear power plants were approaching retirement, and there was a risk that valuable knowledge, experience, and expertise could be lost.

From the very beginning, the goal was clear: to create a platform where knowledge and experience could be shared between generations, while giving young professionals the opportunity to develop, build networks, and shape their future within the nuclear industry. A strong and long-term commitment to competence development is essential for maintaining high standards of nuclear safety and ensuring the continued development of the industry.

The initiative received strong support from companies and authorities across the Swedish nuclear sector. The first Young Generation programme started in 1994 with 120 participants from ABB Atom, ABB TRC, nuclear utilities, SKI, SKB, and Vattenfall Bränsle. Since then, the programme has continued to grow, welcoming new participants every year and creating a strong network for the next generation of nuclear professionals.

The Jan Runermark Award

The Jan Runermark Award was established at the ENS Steering Committee meeting in Dresden on 24 November 1995, in memory of Jan Runermark, who tragically passed away in a car accident on 25 July 1995. As the founder of Young Generation, Jan Runermark’s vision of strengthening knowledge transfer and creating opportunities for the next generation continues to inspire the work of Young Generation Network today.

The award is presented annually by ENS Young Generation Network to an individual who has made a significant contribution to advancing Young Generation and supporting its goals, in accordance with the ENSYGN Terms of Reference.

More information about previous award recipients can be found through ENSYGN Awards.