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November 2025
Fusion in Richland: tritium, orbitrons, 14 MeV neutrons and the challenges of building a nuclear fusion facility.
Fusion in Richland: tritium, orbitrons, 14 MeV neutrons and the challenges of building a nuclear fusion facility.
AVALANCHE ENERGY, a fusion energy startup developing modular compact fusion machines (“orbitrons”), recently announced the launch of FusionWERX, its new fusion test facility located in Richland, Washington. FusionWERX is intended to serve as a first-of-its-kind commercial-scale testing facility for advanced fusion technologies, offering access to private companies, universities, national laboratories, and public-private consortia working to accelerate the path to commercial fusion power.
Speaker Bio
Speaker Bio
Dr. Hawkins DeFrance is the Director of Regulatory Affairs & Safety at Avalanche Energy. He leads the company’s efforts to ensure safe, compliant, and effective operation of fusion systems, overseeing radiation safety, environmental protection, and regulatory strategy.
A Doctor of Pharmacy with more than 25 years of experience, Hawkins brings a deep background in nuclear pharmacy, regulatory compliance, and operations across radiopharmaceuticals, particle accelerator facilities, and nuclear manufacturing. He is also the Chair of the Washington Pharmacy Commission and the first nuclear pharmacist to serve in its 134 year history.
Date
Wednesday, November 12, 2025
Time
05:30 PM Pacific Time (US and Canada)
Meeting Type
Hybrid
This event will feature an in-person presentation (limited space) and an online participation option. Registration is required for both in-person and online attendees.
Cost
Attendance is FREE
Location
Room 210
Center for Career and Technical Education
Columbia Basin College
2600 N. 20th Ave. Pasco, WA 99301
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