Calvin Hadley’s Internship at Valar Atomics
Brooke Heath, Southern Utah University
Southern Utah University (SUU) mechanical engineering student Calvin Hadley spent his summer gaining practical experience in the energy sector through an internship with Valar Atomics. At the Utah San Rafael Energy Lab in Orangeville, Utah, Hadley contributed to advancing clean energy technology while enhancing his engineering skills.
Valar Atomics aims to make nuclear energy reliable and cost-effective for industries such as manufacturing, fuel production, and data infrastructure. Distinct from traditional water-cooled reactors, Valar’s systems utilize helium gas for cooling. The company recently achieved a significant milestone with its test reactor reaching criticality – the first Department of Energy-authorized reactor built outside a national laboratory.
For Hadley, a native of New Harmony, Utah, the internship made clear connections between his university education and real-world problem-solving. “At SUU, I learned the terminology, theories, and concepts, but at Valar, I saw those ideas applied to solve real problems,” Hadley said, expressing how the experience highlighted the relevance of his coursework.
His foundational studies in Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics proved directly applicable during the internship. It underscores the primary goal of higher education: to help students learn essential concepts in the classroom and connect them with industry experts for practical application.
Mentorship at SUU has also been pivotal for Hadley. As he enters his final year, he is engaged in a senior capstone project guided by faculty mentor Dr. Ali Siahpush. Along with three peers, Hadley will work with the local industry partner IPS to design, construct, and test a hydraulic pump system. This project offers hands-on experience in system design, experimental testing, data analysis, and collaboration with professional engineers.
“Calvin’s experience at Valar Atomics showcases the importance of blending personal faculty support with career-focused learning,” noted Dr. Siahpush. “Understanding how classroom principles apply to real engineering challenges transforms students’ educational journeys and strengthens their future careers.”
After graduation, Hadley aims to continue his journey at Valar Atomics full-time, leveraging his academic insight and internship experience.
SUU’s mechanical engineering program equips graduates for high-demand careers in aerospace, manufacturing, and energy. Discover more about SUU’s mechanical engineering program and its hands-on learning opportunities.
