BWXT-Led Team Secures Multi-Billion-Dollar Contract for Canadian Nuclear Laboratories from Atomic Energy of Canada Limited
BWX Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: BWXT), a leader in the development and delivery of nuclear energy and national security solutions, has announced the successful award of a landmark contract by Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL) to oversee the management and operations of Canadian Nuclear Laboratories Ltd. (CNL). This milestone award signals a new chapter in the evolution of Canada’s nuclear research and innovation ecosystem and is expected to have significant impacts on the future of clean energy, environmental protection, and scientific advancement across the country.
The contract was awarded following a rigorous competitive procurement process initiated in 2023. After careful review and evaluation, AECL selected Nuclear Laboratory Partners of Canada Inc. (NLPC) as the preferred bidder. NLPC is a newly formed Canadian joint venture composed of three core partners—BWXT, Kinectrics, and Amentum—with Battelle participating as a key subcontractor. Together, these industry leaders bring decades of experience in nuclear operations, technology innovation, safety, and environmental stewardship.
Transition and Scope of the Contract
Under the terms of the agreement, NLPC will take over the responsibilities of managing and operating CNL on September 13, 2025, after completing a transition period set to begin in the coming weeks. The contract is valued at approximately C$1.2 billion per year and spans an initial term of six years, with options to extend performance-based terms for up to 20 years in total. This makes it one of the largest and most influential federal science and technology contracts in Canada.
At the helm of this transition will be Dennis Carr, who has been appointed as the incoming President and Chief Executive Officer of CNL under the new management structure. Carr’s leadership is expected to guide the organization through a seamless transition while upholding CNL’s mission to drive innovation in nuclear science, environmental remediation, and technology commercialization.
BWXT’s Role and Canadian Footprint
As the lead partner of the NLPC joint venture, BWXT brings a strong track record in nuclear management, engineering, and operations. With existing facilities and personnel across Ontario and British Columbia, BWXT’s Canadian operations employ more than 1,800 highly skilled professionals. These teams are actively engaged in projects ranging from commercial nuclear reactor support and medical isotope production to environmental remediation and nuclear decommissioning.
BWXT has also demonstrated its commitment to inclusive business practices, particularly in its designation as a PAIR-Committed organization—a certification that reflects its proactive engagement with Indigenous communities and rightsholders across Canada. This approach aligns with national priorities around reconciliation, inclusive growth, and sustainable economic development.
“We are deeply honored to lead this exceptional team that will support Canadian Nuclear Laboratories in its next phase of innovation and growth,” said Heatherly Dukes, President of BWXT Technical Services Group, Inc. “Our management team is excited to meet the dedicated employees and union representatives at CNL and to begin laying the groundwork for a smooth and productive transition. We are also looking forward to building strong relationships within the local communities and with Indigenous partners.”
Canadian Nuclear Laboratories: A National Asset
Established as the national nuclear science and technology organization, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories has long been at the forefront of research and development in peaceful nuclear applications. CNL is internationally recognized for its groundbreaking work in clean energy development, nuclear medicine innovation, and environmental protection.
As part of the new contract, CNL’s future mission under NLPC will be concentrated around three core pillars:
- Science and Technology: Continuing to drive cutting-edge nuclear research, including reactor physics, material science, and medical isotope development. CNL’s capabilities in advanced nuclear fuels and small modular reactor (SMR) technology development are expected to play a key role in Canada’s transition to a net-zero economy.
- Decommissioning and Waste Management: Managing Canada’s legacy nuclear waste liabilities, including safe decommissioning of aging infrastructure and long-term containment strategies. The organization’s experience in nuclear waste minimization, environmental risk mitigation, and restoration will remain a critical priority.
- Chalk River Revitalization: Accelerating the revitalization of the Chalk River Laboratories, which serve as the heart of Canada’s nuclear R&D infrastructure. This includes modernizing facilities, expanding digital capabilities, and maintaining over 50 laboratories and licensed nuclear facilities on-site. The revitalization initiative will further position Chalk River as a global hub for nuclear research, education, and industry collaboration.
A Strategic Collaboration
The formation of NLPC reflects a strategic alignment of expertise and resources to address both present-day challenges and long-term opportunities in Canada’s nuclear sector.
- Kinectrics, based in Toronto, is a well-known leader in testing, inspection, and engineering services for nuclear and electrical utilities. Its involvement ensures technical integrity and operational excellence across critical systems.
- Amentum, an international services company with a strong legacy in defense and energy, brings a global perspective in managing large, complex federal programs, particularly those involving environmental cleanup and nuclear security.
- Battelle, as a supporting subcontractor, adds additional research and project execution capacity. Known for managing national laboratories in the U.S., Battelle contributes specialized knowledge in scientific operations and program innovation.
Together, these partners form a powerful consortium capable of elevating Canada’s nuclear capabilities, ensuring public safety, and fostering scientific progress across multiple domains.
National and Global Implications
The award of this contract arrives at a pivotal time for Canada and the global nuclear energy sector. With increasing pressure to decarbonize energy systems, countries around the world are investing in nuclear power as a reliable, low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels. CNL’s expanded role in nuclear science will not only contribute to domestic energy security but also position Canada as a global leader in sustainable nuclear technologies.
Furthermore, this partnership reinforces the importance of collaboration between public institutions and private industry in achieving national science and energy goals. By leveraging the strengths of each joint venture partner, the contract is expected to accelerate technological innovation, enhance operational efficiency, and improve outcomes for both the environment and Canadian society.
