Nuclear Fuels Engineer & Clean Energy Advocate at Constellation Energy, Miss America 2023 & Named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 Energy list
Grace Vanderhei‘s Biography:
Grace is a nuclear engineer, clean energy advocate, and one of the most recognisable voices promoting nuclear power in the modern energy sector. As a Nuclear Fuels Engineer and Clean Energy Advocate at Constellation Energy, she combines technical expertise with exceptional communication skills to make complex energy issues accessible to diverse audiences. She gained international prominence as Miss America 2023, using one of the world’s most visible platforms to champion nuclear energy as a reliable, safe, and zero-carbon solution to global energy challenges. Her ability to bridge science, policy, and public understanding has made her a highly sought-after keynote speaker on clean energy, leadership, and STEM advocacy.
Grace’s passion for science and engineering led her to study nuclear engineering at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. While pursuing her academic studies, she simultaneously built a successful career within the Miss America organisation. In 2017, she was crowned Miss Wisconsin’s Outstanding Teen before making history in 2022 as the first woman to hold both the Miss Wisconsin Teen and Miss Wisconsin titles. Her unique combination of technical expertise and public engagement positioned her perfectly to become a powerful ambassador for clean energy and science communication.
Her influence has been recognised across both the energy and leadership sectors. In 2024, Grace was named to the prestigious Forbes 30 Under 30 Energy list, celebrating her impact on the future of energy. Widely praised for modernising public conversations around nuclear power, she has been described by the Wall Street Journal as “the new face of nuclear energy”. Through media appearances, industry conferences, and educational outreach, she continues to challenge misconceptions surrounding clean energy technologies.
During her year as Miss America, Grace travelled more than 270,000 miles worldwide, visiting nuclear facilities, universities, research institutions, and international conferences. Her work focuses on encouraging more women to pursue STEM careers while promoting evidence-based discussions around energy policy. Combining technical credibility with engaging storytelling, she continues to inspire audiences across industry, government, education, and business sectors.
Why Hire Grace Vanderhei?
Grace offers a rare combination of engineering expertise, leadership experience, and exceptional communication skills. Drawing upon her experiences as a nuclear engineer and Miss America 2023, she delivers compelling presentations on clean energy, science communication, leadership, women in STEM, and combating misinformation. Having spoken at international conferences, universities, industry events, and energy forums worldwide, she translates complex technical subjects into engaging and actionable insights. Audiences value her ability to inspire innovation, encourage critical thinking, and foster informed discussions about the future of energy and sustainability.
Grace Vanderhei‘s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Grace Vanderhei’s remarkable career:
- 2025 – Completed an international speaking tour across Australia, advocating for nuclear energy and clean power solutions.
- 2024 – Named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 Energy list in recognition of her impact on the energy sector.
- 2023 – Appointed Nuclear Fuels Engineer and Clean Energy Advocate at Constellation Energy.
- 2023 – Travelled more than 270,000 miles promoting clean energy, STEM education, and nuclear innovation.
- 2022 – Crowned Miss America 2023 and used the platform to champion nuclear power as a zero-carbon energy source.
- 2022 – Became the first woman to hold both Miss Wisconsin Teen and Miss Wisconsin titles.
- 2022 – Graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Madison with a degree in Nuclear Engineering, strengthening her technical expertise.
- 2017 – Crowned Miss Wisconsin’s Outstanding Teen, beginning her journey as a public advocate and leader.
Videos
Grace Vanderhei’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Grace Vanderhei delivered one of the most engaging and thought-provoking presentations we have ever hosted. Her ability to simplify complex topics such as nuclear energy and clean power while maintaining scientific credibility was truly exceptional. Grace brought a unique combination of technical expertise, authenticity, and passion to the stage, inspiring our audience to think differently about the future of energy. Her personal journey, leadership experience, and commitment to STEM education resonated deeply with attendees. Professional, insightful, and highly engaging, Grace was a standout speaker who left a lasting impression on everyone in the room.” – David Simms
Speaking Topics
Grace Vanderhei’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Nuclear Energy & the Clean Energy Transition
- Energy Security & Global Sustainability
- Breaking Misconceptions in Complex Industries
- Science Communication & Public Trust
- Leadership, Confidence & Purpose
- Women in STEM & Engineering Leadership
How Much Does Grace Vanderhei Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Grace Vanderhei?
Grace Vanderhei’s speaking fees typically reflect her exceptional career and international demand. Engagements vary depending on location, format, and duration; keynote appearances, conferences, and international events may command higher fees due to travel and preparation requirements.