Karissa Palinka (she/her)

I am an engineer on the Darlington New Nuclear Project. OPG is not designing the reactor. We use our operating experience to review the vendor’s designs to ensure they are meeting Canadian codes and standards. We also make sure they meet our own rigorous safety expectations.

Right now OPG is writing our License to Construct application. This will be submitted to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission later this year. We are summarizing technical information to show that the design meets the CNSC’s high standards. We are also discussing how safety will be kept top of mind at all parts of the project. This includes during the construction, commissioning, and for the operating life of our new build. I also get involved in the business side of power generation. For example, last year we prepared the business case, costing summaries, risk assessments, and technology reviews in addition to our normal day-to-day duties.

My educational background is very useful when reviewing calculations. For example, finding the appropriate size for a heat exchanger, or deciding what needs to be done to prevent corrosion in water-bearing systems.  The most important thing a degree in engineering teaches you is how to review problems and identify solutions. I use weighted evaluation matrices to consider different options. Also, I use risk ranking methodology on a weekly, if not daily, basis. My engineering degree also prepared me for working in a cross-functional team environment. I work with project managers, engineers from other disciplines, vendors, operators, maintainers, and others in my day-to-day work.

During the pandemic, working from home provided an interesting pivot to virtual meetings. However, I would say they have successfully been integrated into the work culture now. I personally only speak English fluently. Although it is not necessary for my job, I am hoping to take lessons in French once my Master’s is complete. With OPG expanding into northern communities and other jurisdictions, I see French as a potential asset.