About
Nic Daneman is a nuclear safety analysis engineer currently working at X-energy, where he focuses on probabilistic risk assessment (PRA) for the Xe-100 reactor. His work centers on quantifying risk across the plant's major systems and communicating that risk in a way that informs design and operational decisions.
Career
X-energy — Nuclear Safety Analysis Engineer
At X-energy, Nic performs fault tree modeling using EPRI's Phoenix Architect tool, which relies on the CAFTA engine to quantify fault trees, as part of the probabilistic risk assessment effort for the Xe-100 reactor. His work includes quantifying risk for the plant's major systems, and he has authored internal technical memos on helium pressure boundary reliability and TRISO fuel handling system reliability. He also organizes internal simulator tours for colleagues and visitors.
NuScale Power (Internship)
Prior to X-energy, Nic interned at NuScale Power, where he performed 3D modeling and design work on a proprietary lunar microreactor concept.
HVAC Design & Energy Engineering
Before moving into nuclear engineering, Nic worked as an HVAC design engineer and energy engineer, performing energy modeling for LEED-certified buildings. His most notable project was leading the energy modeling for a large corporate client in Dublin, Ohio, a project that achieved LEED Gold certification in significant part due to his energy modeling work. Later in this role, he led smaller HVAC design projects independently, gaining early experience in engineering project management.
Education
Nic holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics, with a concentration in Nuclear Engineering, from The Ohio State University.
Prior to that, Nic attended Foxcroft Academy, graduating in 2019. While there, he was a Rose Award recipient, ran cross country and track, and served as senior class vice president. He continues to donate to Foxcroft Academy and its STEM programs.
Outside of Work
Nic plays pickleball and practices astrophotography using his own telescope. He publishes video content on YouTube and does his own video editing. He is also a musician, playing piano, saxophone, and guitar, and has performed in guitar ensembles. He lives in Maryland, in the greater Washington, D.C. area.