As a profit trade association the AIF advocated the peaceful uses of atomic energy and increasing the role of the private sector in its development.
AIF's efforts helped to achieve the passage of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 which resulted in the growth of a commercial nuclear industry.
Working with other forums around the world, the program sought, through publications, workshops, exhibitions, speeches and outreach, to foster and achieve better understanding of the peaceful uses of atomic energy.
Both the government and private sectors involvement in atomic energy grew steadily; eventually, more that 125 commercial nuclear power plants provided 20 percent of America's electricity.
As new challenges and opportunities evolved, new industry efforts and resources were required to address these matters.