Boston Government Services is committed to building a welcoming and inclusive workplace that supports, encourages, and celebrates the diverse voices of our employees. Our employee spotlight series gives our team members the opportunity to share their unique perspective.
Dave (left) with his wife, Aldeane (right)
What is your name and position at BGS?
David Tiktinsky, Senior Nuclear Regulatory Licensing Specialist
How long have you worked at BGS?
Since January 22
What is your professional background?
I spent nearly 40 years with the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) prior to joining BGS. I spent the last 20 years in licensing and regulatory related activities for nuclear fuel cycle facilities and facilities that produce medical isotopes using uranium. Previously, I worked on the certification of radioactive material transportation packages that are under NRC jurisdiction, and high-level and low-level nuclear waste disposal. I am a graduate of the University of Arizona with a BS degree in Mining Engineering.
What hobbies do you enjoy?
I enjoy playing golf whenever I can. I am also an avid collector of crystals and mineral specimens. I work with my wife in an Etsy business in which we make an assortment of decorator items using various minerals and crystals. I also enjoy traveling to interesting places around the United States and the world.
Describe the work you do and how you think it makes a positive impact.
I am currently supporting nuclear fuel cycle and medical isotope production applicants and licensees navigating the NRC licensing process. Fuel cycle and medical isotope facilities support the nuclear power industry (including advanced reactors) and the production of medical isotopes, using uranium, for diagnostics and treatments for various diseases. The results of helping licensees and applicants with the NRC licensing process provides for a smoother and shorter path to safe and efficient operation of their facilities.
What has been your proudest career moment?
I was the licensing project manager for the Mixed Oxide Fuel Fabrication Facility for the NRC for over 12 years until the project was cancelled. The project’s purpose was to use plutonium from nuclear weapons and convert it into mixed oxide fuel for nuclear power plants. It was located on the Savannah River Site in Aiken, SC. This was the most complicated licensing action that NRC had performed in the nuclear fuel cycle area in recent times. We developed a detailed Safety Evaluation Report which culminated almost 4 years of licensing review activities. We also came up with a new, one-of-a-kind regulatory construction verification process that was needed in order to ultimately issue a license. Although the project was ultimately cancelled, I was very proud of what we were able to accomplish.
What do you enjoy about working for BGS?
Working for BGS has given me the opportunity to support a variety of nuclear fuel cycle facilities and medical isotope licensees and applicants. I have been very impressed with the way projects are managed at BGS, with the emphasis on quality of the work to support clients’ needs with the minimum of bureaucracy.