Marynette Latham Herndon, CHMM, REM, a distinguished professional in the nuclear and environmental engineering industries, serves as president and owner of Herndon & Associates, Inc. Since founding the company, she has applied her extensive expertise to advancing nuclear power technology and environmental management. Ms. Herndon has cultivated a career marked by innovation, leadership, and dedication to the principles of safety and sustainability.
Ms. Herndon holds a master’s degree in environmental engineering from Southern Methodist University and a Bachelor’s Degree in biology from Georgia Southern University. These academic achievements laid the foundation for her technical expertise and deep understanding of the complex intersection of biology, engineering, and environmental science. Her commitment to professional excellence is further demonstrated through her certifications, including certified hazardous materials manager and registered environmental manager, earned in conjunction with her extensive experience.
Ms. Herndon’s career in the nuclear field began at a commercial nuclear plant in Georgia, where she worked as a chemical radiation technician specializing in chemistry, radiation, environmental studies, and water sampling. Her passion for nuclear energy and its potential to address global energy challenges propelled her to transition into health physics and emergency management. During this career phase, she contributed to developing NUREG-0654, a crucial document issued by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission that established protective measures for communities near nuclear plants. Her role involved developing procedures, providing training, and implementing strategies to ensure safety and compliance.
In 2000, Ms. Herndon launched Herndon & Associates, Inc., establishing her own consultancy to further her impact in the nuclear field. Shortly thereafter, she began collaborating with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as part of the Geological Emergency Management Program. In this capacity, she leveraged her expertise to enhance nuclear facility emergency preparedness and response strategies. Her contributions to FEMA’s initiatives underscore her commitment to public safety and the responsible advancement of nuclear technology.
Ms. Herndon’s work in recent years has centered on the development of next-generation nuclear reactors. Under contract for a groundbreaking project involving Bill Gates’s new reactor, she contributes to a transformative shift in nuclear energy technology. This reactor, which departs from traditional water-cooled designs, employs sodium as a coolant, enabling more efficient operation and reducing the risk of radiological release. The design incorporates innovative features such as fast neutrons, heat storage, and cost-effective construction, positioning it as a sustainable and economically viable solution for global energy needs.
Ms. Herndon’s extensive expertise has garnered her numerous accolades, including a national award from the Department of Energy. The governor of Louisiana also recognized her contributions to environmental matters with an Environmental Leadership Award, and she received an Achievement Award from the Strategic Reserve. These honors reflect her dedication to advancing the nuclear and environmental engineering fields while maintaining a steadfast focus on ethics and accountability.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Ms. Herndon actively supports civic organizations such as Moffitt Cancer Center and Narconon Drug Prevention Center, underscoring her commitment to social responsibility. She balances her professional and community endeavors with personal pursuits, including fly fishing and photography. Residing in Idaho with her husband Richard and their two stepchildren, she has made the state her home after relocating for work at the Idaho National Lab.
As she looks to the future, Ms. Herndon envisions herself at the forefront of nuclear innovation, playing a key role in bringing next-generation reactors to operational status. Her work involves completing licensing requirements and emergency planning for these reactors, which promise to redefine the energy landscape. Her unwavering dedication to sustainability, safety, and innovation ensures she will remain a leading voice in the transformative phase of nuclear energy.
Throughout her career, Ms. Herndon has exemplified the principles of leadership, adaptability, and vision. Her impact on the nuclear industry and her contributions to environmental engineering testify to her expertise and dedication to creating a safer and more sustainable future.