Women in Fusion Profile - Miki Nishimura
Women in Fusion on Instagram is a celebration and showcase of women working in the pursuit of fusion energy. It exists to inspire and inform people about the varied opportunities in STEM (Science Technology Engineering and Maths) and to show young women, and others from diverse backgrounds, that science is for everyone. It was set up by Dr Melanie Windridge and is run by Fusion Energy Insights.
We are pleased to feature Miki Nishimura who works as an engineer at Kyoto Fusioneering Ltd.
What in fusion do you work on?
I belong to the Business Development Department and promote the industrialization of fusion by cooperating with various companies. Our company specialises in fusion plant engineering, my role is a interface between plasma experts and fusion plant engineering.
I consider what projects to pursue, with whom, and how to proceed, and then establish a cooperative system to promote the project together.
Why did you get into fusion?
With a PhD in physics and a background as a business consultant, I became interested in using my experience to contribute to the fusion industry and became attracted to the grand vision of creating a new global energy industry working with people around the world together.
Any advice for others looking to get into fusion?
Fusion plants are filled with cutting-edge human knowledge. It may take time to be able to understand all of it (or you may not even have to be), but you need to study little by little, starting with the areas that interest you, and explore what you can call your own area of expertise.
It may be not only the technical aspect, but also be the people relationship skill such as working together with people from various backgrounds to promote a project, or a public relationship expertise that promotes public understanding.
The creation of a new industry requires a variety of skills and collaboration among people from different backgrounds. It is important to strike a balance between not being afraid of what you don't know and asking for help from other professionals, and being empowered in your own area of expertise.
Share something about yourself and what you do outside of work.
I enjoy a variety of hobbies outside of work. Recently, I have been practicing Japanese traditional dance and trying to am obtain an instructor's license.
I also enjoy talking with my friends or reading books (stories, not technical books!) at cafes in weekend.
Thank you to Miki for her contributions to fusion and for stepping up to inspire others! You can see more Women in Fusion on Instagram. If you would like to be included, please complete this form.