Frequently Asked Questions

What is Native Nuclear’s mission and who does it serve?

Native Nuclear is a Native-led, Native-serving 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering Indigenous communities and uplifting Native voices in the nuclear energy sector. Our mission is to support tribal nations through culturally grounded STEM education, workforce development, environmental stewardship, and energy sovereignty. The organization primarily serves Native youth, tribal leaders, and Indigenous community members by providing resources, mentorship, and pathways into nuclear-related careers and policy engagement.

Who founded Native Nuclear, and what expertise does the leadership bring?

Native Nuclear was founded by Scott Lathrop, an elder of yak titʸu titʸu yak tiłhini (ytt) Tribe. Scott has an established focus on building relationships between tribal communities, the nuclear power industry, and governmental leaders to ensure mutual benefit from the growing nuclear power sector. Scott is an alumnus of California State Polytechnic University San Luis Obispo and is a member of the university’s President’s Council of Advisors, the Diablo Canyon Decommissioning Engagement Panel, Cuesta College Foundation Board, and ytt Northern Chumash nonprofit. With decades of experience in nuclear operations and community engagement, Scott leads Native Nuclear as its Chief Executive Officer and is a national speaker on the inclusion of Indigenous perspectives in nuclear policy.

Scott is joined by Director Ryan Pickering, a nuclear science communicator and researcher with expertise in supporting the U.S. Department of Energy’s Collaboration-Based Siting initiative. Operations Coordinator Samantha Brandts brings nonprofit, outreach, and research experience to the team, ensuring that day-to-day efforts align with the organization’s mission. Native Nuclear also hosts interns, such as Joursele Bang-As, a nuclear engineering student whose research focuses on uranium remediation and nuclear systems modeling, reflecting the organization’s commitment to developing future Indigenous leaders in science and energy.

Why is it important for Native communities to be involved in nuclear conversations?

It is essential for Native communities to be involved in nuclear discussions because numerous past nuclear activities, such as uranium mining and waste disposal, occurred on or near tribal lands without consent, often resulting in direct negative ramifications for Native people, who then received little to no reparations. Native Nuclear emphasizes that tribal participation in modern nuclear policy ensures sovereignty, maintains cultural values, and supports long-term environmental stewardship. Engaging in these conversations allows Native communities to protect their lands, build trust, and shape decisions about energy and waste that impacts future generations.

Which communities or tribes does Native Nuclear represent?

Native Nuclear does not represent or speak on behalf of any specific tribe. Instead, the organization highlights Scott’s unique perspective on the nuclear industry, as informed by his experiences with his tribe and professional life. Our team advocates for the broader inclusion of Native voices in the national conversation around energy sovereignty. Native Nuclear’s work supports tribal self-determination by offering education and engagement opportunities that are respectful of each tribe’s unique governance, history, and goals.

What opportunities are available for Native youth through Native Nuclear?

Native Nuclear offers a variety of programs and resources to support Native youth in exploring nuclear science and energy careers. These include hands-on learning opportunities like our Summer 2025 Camp, where Native high school students tour the Diablo Canyon Nuclear Power Plant and connect tribal values with STEM education. The organization also hosts interactive workshops and Nuclear 101 educational events that are accessible to students and Indigenous youth. Native Nuclear is committed to building a nuclear workforce of Native professionals by creating pathways into STEM careers through mentorship, culturally relevant outreach, and partnerships with academic institutions and tribal organizations.

Does Native Nuclear support nuclear waste storage on tribal lands?

Native Nuclear actively participates in national conversations around collaborative siting for nuclear waste, including the possibility of spent fuel storage on or near tribal lands. As a member of the Department of Energy’s Collaboration-Based Siting Consortia for Consolidated Storage Facilities, Native Nuclear ensures that tribal nations are included in decision-making processes in nuclear waste management. Our work emphasizes tribal sovereignty, transparency, and informed consent, ensuring that Native communities have the power to decide if, when, and how they wish to engage in these conversations. Native Nuclear does not advocate for or against storage on tribal lands specifically, but rather advocates for Native-led participation in these critical discussions to ensure decisions reflect the interests and values of Indigenous communities.

How is Native Nuclear funded and governed?

The organization is funded in part by the U.S. Department of Energy under Award DE-NE0009338 and operates as a registered nonprofit based in San Luis Obispo, California. Its governance structure follows standard nonprofit practices, led by a core executive team and supported by advisors who help implement programs and outreach initiatives.

How can my tribe or organization get involved with Native Nuclear?

If you are part of a tribal nation, a Native organization, or want to work with Indigenous communities, we invite you to contact us at admin@nativenuclear.org to get in touch with our operations team and begin conversations about Native involvement in the nuclear sector.