Module 5: Visit at OKG
In June, participants of the Nordic Nuclear Training Program (NNTP) visited OKG in Oskarshamn, Sweden. The visit was part of Module 5 of the program and offered a deep dive into leadership, mentorship, decommissioning, and Sweden’s approach to nuclear waste management.
Day 1: Leadership and Strategy at OKG
The visit began with a warm welcome and strategic leadership session led by Johan Lundberg. The morning continued with a presentation from Lotta Halt on WANO (World Association of Nuclear Operators), emphasizing global collaboration in nuclear safety. Afternoon sessions included insights from Sune Jonsson on Blykalla and Eva Häll from SKB, who introduced SKB’s mission and its role in managing Sweden’s radioactive waste
Day 2: Technical Deep Dives and Site Visits
The second day featured presentations from Ulrika Ekengren Allen (Westinghouse) and Niklas Torstensson (Fuel engineering), followed by site visits to O3 and the O1/O2 reactors that are under decommissioning.
Seeing the empty reactor pools and containment areas at O1 and O2 was impactful. These huge and quiet empty spaces inside a nuclear plant showed the real sizes and complexity of the processes. We learned a lot about the careful process of decommissioning, including radiation protection and dismantling.
Day 3: Teambuilding and Mentorship
The final day focused on soft skills and professional development. Patrik Olsson led a teambuilding session, followed by a mentorship workshop with Sara Einarsson. The session emphasized the importance of trust, openness, and mutual respect in mentor-mentee relationships, and highlighted the long-term benefits of structured mentorship for both personal and professional growth. And of course the most important part is that we got our mentors assigned to us.
A Stroll Through Oskarshamn
Beyond the technical program, the visit also offered a chance to enjoy the charm of Oskarshamn. Nestled along Sweden’s southeastern coast, the city welcomed us with its peaceful harbor views, quaint streets, and friendly atmosphere. We took part in a competitive walking tour through the city center, which gave us a glimpse into Oskarshamn’s history, culture, and local life.
It was a refreshing and memorable way to connect with the place and each other outside the formal sessions.
Reflections and Takeaways
The NNTP visit to OKG was not only technically enriching but also personally inspiring. Witnessing the decommissioned reactor halls and empty pools left a lasting impression, reminding us of the full lifecycle of nuclear energy—from generation to responsible closure. Combined with leadership insights, mentorship development, and exposure to waste management strategies, the experience highlighted the Nordic region’s commitment to safety, innovation, and sustainability in the nuclear sector.
Mika Pulkkinen
NNTP 24-25
Design Engineer
Engineering & Projects