At 250 Years, America Is Building the Future of Nuclear Energy
Washington, D.C.– Following the Department of Energy’s announcement that three advanced nuclear reactors have reached criticality, a key milestone in getting a nuclear reactor online and moving it closer to producing power, NAM President and CEO Jay Timmons released the following statement:
“In May 2025, President Trump set an ambitious goal: three nuclear reactors reaching criticality by Independence Day 2026, allowing them to produce electricity within a few years. Thanks to the administration’s energy leadership and the ingenuity of America’s manufacturers, America has achieved an historic milestone — one that exemplifies manufacturers’ relentless commitment to reaching new frontiers and building the future of American energy.
“Building more nuclear reactors here at home is how we secure America’s energy future and unleash American energy dominance. The Department of Energy’s Reactor Pilot Program shows what is possible when policymakers embrace innovation instead of standing in its way. The future of nuclear is bright, as there has been widespread bipartisan recognition that we will need nuclear power — from traditional plants to small, modular and advanced reactors — and a lot more of it.
“Manufacturers consume more than one-third of our country’s energy. By continuing to advance the administration’s energy dominance policies, a new generation of American nuclear technology will strengthen our energy security, bolster our supply chains, support the rapid growth of AI and drive America’s manufacturing competitiveness for decades to come. With the right policies in place, especially comprehensive permitting reform, America’s manufacturers can continue leading the way.”
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The National Association of Manufacturers is the largest manufacturing association in the United States, representing small and large manufacturers in every industrial sector and in all 50 states. Manufacturing employs nearly 13 million men and women, contributes $2.96 trillion to the U.S. economy annually and accounts for nearly 52% of private-sector research and development. The NAM is the powerful voice of the manufacturing community and the leading advocate for a policy agenda that helps manufacturers compete in the global economy and create jobs across the United States. For more information about the NAM or to follow us on Twitter and Facebook, please visit www.nam.org.
