Developing Accelerator Operators at LANSCE* 

       M.W. Hardy

   WAO'98 Abstract

   The process of developing an individual into a competent operator
   who can safely and efficiently operate the Los Alamos Neutron
   Science Center (LANSCE), or other accelerator facility, is a
   complex process.  It begins with recruiting and ends with
   retention; steps in between include training, professional
   development and career advancement.  This paper discusses the
   approaches that the Operations & Technical Support Group at LANSCE
   have  taken to deal with these and other issues associated with
   assembling a highly competent staff of accelerator operators. 
   Emphasis is placed on operator training, which is accomplished
   through a self-study program modeled after the United States Navy's
   Nuclear Power Plant Operator qualification program.

       *work supported by the US Department of Energy