At the Nuclear Institute (NI), we know how hard it can be to prioritise learning and development when you’re balancing deadlines and demanding workloads. But growing your skills and knowledge doesn’t always need hours of study—sometimes just 15 minutes can make a difference.
Here are 12 quick and effective ways to keep learning at work, all designed with your time and professional growth in mind.
1. Sign up for industry updates
Stay on top of developments in the nuclear sector by subscribing to the NI e-newsletter and following updates on our website. Flag articles in your inbox to read during a break or your commute—they’re a simple way to stay current without committing big chunks of time.
2. Connect with like-minded professionals
NI events are the perfect place to meet others working across the nuclear industry. Sharing knowledge, insights, and experiences can be one of the most powerful ways to learn. Don’t forget to also follow the NI and your fellow members on LinkedIn to keep conversations going.
3. Listen to a podcast or watch a TED Talk
Make the most of your commute or coffee break with a podcast or TED Talk. Look for topics on leadership, innovation, or engineering excellence that resonate with the nuclear sector. You might even find inspiration for your next NI CPD entry.
4. Scroll with purpose
Social media can be a valuable learning tool—if you curate it well. Follow NI on LinkedIn and Instagram and build a feed of industry thought leaders and experts. Just five minutes a day can expand your knowledge of what's happening across nuclear energy, regulation, and sustainability.
5. Catch up on webinars
Can’t attend live NI webinars? Many are recorded so you can watch back in your own time—even in short bursts. Set aside a Friday afternoon or lunch break to watch them in sections and absorb insights from experts across the sector.
6. Take a course—bit by bit
Explore the NI e-learning hub at videotilehost.com/nuclearinst for short, impactful online courses. Our bitesize courses are designed to fit into your lunch break or quiet moments during the day. Build your skills in health & safety, project management, environmental awareness, and more, at your pace.
7. Get to know a colleague
Sometimes learning happens over coffee. Arrange a chat with someone from a different part of your organisation to understand their work, share perspectives, and build professional relationships. You’ll pick up insights you wouldn’t find in a textbook.
8. Read with us – join the NI Atomic Habits Book Club
Our official NI Book Club, Atomic Habits, is a great way to explore inspiring reads related to professional development and personal effectiveness. Dip into a few pages each day, then join your peers in lunchtime discussions about how to apply what you’ve learned.
9. Find a mentor through the NI Mentoring Scheme
Looking for personalised career guidance? The NI Mentoring Scheme – Nuclear Mentors pairs you with experienced professionals in the nuclear sector. Whether you’re navigating early career decisions or preparing for a leadership role, mentoring can be a powerful tool for growth.
10. Start a learning group
Gather a few colleagues and set up a learning club. Choose a topic—like safety culture or project delivery excellence—and meet regularly to share ideas and insights. Learning together creates accountability and keeps momentum going.
11. Set and display your goals
Write down three professional development goals and keep them visible—on your desktop, notebook, or even your lab coat locker. Reviewing them regularly keeps your objectives top of mind and helps you track your progress.
12. Reflect and record with My Career Path
Use the NI’s My Career Path platform to reflect on your development, record your learning activities, and build a personal CPD record. It’s a simple, effective way to visualise your growth and plan your next steps.
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Final Thought
Professional development doesn’t have to mean long hours or added stress. With a bit of planning, you can build learning into your week in small, manageable ways. Whether you join a book club, take a short course, or chat with a mentor, every action counts.
Explore more, connect more, and keep learning, with the Nuclear Institute.