Humble beginnings, big career
Chief Financial Officer Del Salazar was once a girl with big dreams from a small town in New Mexico. She shares her inspiring story with Lab News.
Past Articles
View past articles grouped by topic.
Sandia to offer new healthcare plan option during Open Enrollment
The Health Savings Plan premiums will cost about 25% less for most employees. Open Enrollment begins Oct. 25.
Continue Reading Sandia to offer new healthcare plan option during Open Enrollment
Small IT business wins Sandia’s largest single subcontract
Small IT business wins Sandia’s largest single subcontract
Continue Reading Small IT business wins Sandia’s largest single subcontract
UNM, Sandia to develop first NM master’s program for project management
UNM, Sandia to develop first NM master’s program for project management
Continue Reading UNM, Sandia to develop first NM master’s program for project management
Sandia injects $3.76 billion into economy
Nation, state, small businesses benefit from Sandia purchasing
Benefits Open Enrollment
Open Enrollment is happening now. This is the annual opportunity for employees and retirees to review and update benefit elections, including medical, dental and vision coverage, flexible spending accounts, changes to covered dependents, vacation buy and more.
AI with accessibility in mind
Michael P. Brenner, physics professor at Harvard University and Google Research scientist, presented on breakthroughs in accessibility tools and opportunities for advances.
Sandia-led collaboration achieves one of world’s fastest molecular dynamics simulations
A team of collaborative researchers shatters a speed barrier on a single-wafer scale engine. The team has been named a Gordon Bell finalist for this pivotal achievement.
Science at the speed of AI
Sandia scientist Jennifer Gaudioso's testimony before Congress focused on how artificial intelligence can address complex scientific and national security challenges.
Hundreds participate in digital engineering workshop
Sandia recently hosted the third annual Digital Engineering Workshop, drawing participants from across the nuclear security enterprise, including labs, plants and sites, as well as representatives from NASA and private industry.
Continue Reading Hundreds participate in digital engineering workshop
Transformational capabilities demonstrated by Sandia at AI Expo
Ten national laboratories, including Sandia, shared one of the largest booths at the AI Expo for National Competitiveness. Sandians demonstrated their expertise in applied machine intelligence and virtual reality.
Continue Reading Transformational capabilities demonstrated by Sandia at AI Expo
Former Sandian added to Entrepreneurial Wall of Fame
Charles Rath, CEO of a data analytics company in Albuquerque, uses his years of experience and research to improve New Mexico and the world.
Continue Reading Former Sandian added to Entrepreneurial Wall of Fame
National achievement award goes to Sandia engineer
Budi Gunawan has been recognized for his work in marine energy and river hydrodynamics.
Continue Reading National achievement award goes to Sandia engineer
Honoring excellence
NNSA recognized Sandians whose contributions to stockpile stewardship went above and beyond.
Sandians receive top NNSA awards
James Peery and Tina Nenoff were recognized for excellence in leadership and scientific innovation.
Materials scientist elected to National Academy of Inventors
Sandia Fellow Tina Nenoff's election to the academy reflects the breadth and impact of her work.
Continue Reading Materials scientist elected to National Academy of Inventors
Society of Women Engineers honors Sandia materials scientist
Erica Redline is recognized nationally for her mentoring leadership.
Continue Reading Society of Women Engineers honors Sandia materials scientist
Sandia podcast awarded
The "Inside Sandia Podcast" takes gold at New Mexico Public Relations Society of America’s Cumbre Awards.
Electron work yields positive outcome
The American Physical Society honored researcher Wei Pan with a fellow appointment.
Richard Claassen: Manhattan Project veteran, fundamental research champion
On May 31, 1957, Claassen proposed establishing a group focused on fundamental physical sciences research — the beginnings of the advanced science and technology division at Sandia today.
Continue Reading Richard Claassen: Manhattan Project veteran, fundamental research champion
Scientists chip away at a metallic mystery, one atom at a time
It’s no secret that radiation weakens metal. Sandia researchers are uncovering how.
Continue Reading Scientists chip away at a metallic mystery, one atom at a time
Through the quantum looking glass
Sandia scientists partnered with a research group to design an ultrathin device that triggers one of quantum mechanics’ strangest and most useful phenomena.
Creating diamonds to shed light on the quantum world
Sandia scientist Andy Mounce’s work with diamond quantum sensors as earned him a DOE Early Career Research Award.
Continue Reading Creating diamonds to shed light on the quantum world
Science at Sandia: Motivated by curiosity, vital to national security and well-being
A memo written by Richard Claassen 65 years ago changed the course of science and technology research at the Labs. These changes continue to impact research at Sandia daily.
Society of Women Engineers honors Sandia materials scientist
Erica Redline is recognized nationally for her mentoring leadership.
Continue Reading Society of Women Engineers honors Sandia materials scientist
Bridging the gap between Sandia and HBCUs
In 2020, when Rahni Kellum noticed a gap within Sandia’s Academic Alliance Program, she did a lot more than speak up.
Sandia welcomes over 50 interns from HBCUs
This summer, students from over 13 historically Black colleges and universities engaged in technical projects and contributed to research across various fields.
Sandians find inspiration in Diwali celebration
Sandia California celebrated its first Diwali festival with food, art and conversation Oct. 30.
Continue Reading Sandians find inspiration in Diwali celebration
Sandia veterans share stories, solidarity at Veterans Day event
During the ceremony on Nov. 11, Sandia veterans John Bailon, Geoff Bacon and Kevin Stielow spoke and veterans received challenge coins. Sandia California’s Veterans Day on Nov. 7 featured keynote speaker Lt. Col. Brian Cracchiola.
Continue Reading Sandia veterans share stories, solidarity at Veterans Day event
The disabilities we cannot see
Read the stories of Sandians who experience the world through the lens of their disabilities, particularly ones that are not obvious to their friends and colleagues.
Employees use new benefit for whatever floats their boat
Beginning this year, eligible employees receive two floating holidays, totaling 16 hours, each year. Seven Sandians share how they are using the new benefit.
Continue Reading Employees use new benefit for whatever floats their boat
Hybrid and remote work here to stay
Building a hybrid work environment is a Sandia priority that will help attract and retain a talented workforce and ensure a modern, efficient, timely and compelling infrastructure that aids the national security mission.
Ergonomics is the backbone of employee health
Since COVID-19 began, thousands of Sandians have trusted the ergonomics team to evaluate their home offices and make safe and healthy improvements.
Continue Reading Ergonomics is the backbone of employee health
July brings wealth of well-being information
Sandia presents Financial Well-Being and Beyond, a series of presentations and events focusing on finances, emotional well-being and family care.
Continue Reading July brings wealth of well-being information
Ombuds is back
After a four-year hiatus, Ronnie Thomson has reestablished a place where Sandians can talk through work-related concerns informally, confidentially and impartially.
Employee engagement survey sparks new initiatives
The Labs surveyed staff last year to identify its top opportunities for improvement. Armed with that information, leadership is taking action.
Continue Reading Employee engagement survey sparks new initiatives
Sandia collaboration produces improved microneedle technology
From helping U.S. service members in the field diagnose infections earlier to helping individuals monitor their own health, these tiny needles hold big promise.
Continue Reading Sandia collaboration produces improved microneedle technology
Living, racing and inspiring with Type 1
Sandia engineer Sofie Schunk won’t be going to the Olympics ... yet.
Meet one of New Mexico’s most influential women in business
Communications expert Karli Massey shares how strategy inspires connectedness and innovation.
Continue Reading Meet one of New Mexico’s most influential women in business
Preventing collateral damage in cancer treatment
A simple concept and a patented Sandia sensor protect healthy tissue during proton radiotherapy.
Continue Reading Preventing collateral damage in cancer treatment
Wearable sensor system tracks levels of ‘last line of defense’ antibiotic
Jill Hruby Fellow leads team that develops a painless monitoring patch.
Continue Reading Wearable sensor system tracks levels of ‘last line of defense’ antibiotic
Magnetic beads key to better handheld lab
A new platform that provides higher-fidelity test results for biofluids is ready for commercialization.
New California mural showcases Sandia’s labor of love
Inspired by the 75th anniversary theme of “Making history, Shaping the future,” two creative designers made history of their own by painting the California site’s first mural.
Continue Reading New California mural showcases Sandia’s labor of love
Sandians find inspiration in Diwali celebration
Sandia California celebrated its first Diwali festival with food, art and conversation Oct. 30.
Continue Reading Sandians find inspiration in Diwali celebration
Postdoctoral researchers compete in Bay Area SLAM
Postdocs from each of the Bay Area’s DOE labs showed up with their most innovative ideas and a crowd of enthusiastic supporters.
Continue Reading Postdoctoral researchers compete in Bay Area SLAM
Science, food, fun at CA Family Day
From a virtual reality experience to learning about weapons systems, the California campus offered fun for all ages during Family Day.
California campus improvements enhance site for Sandians and visitors
Stylish signage and water-wise landscaping are just the first phase of updating the Livermore site.
Continue Reading California campus improvements enhance site for Sandians and visitors
California’s student interns teach next generation
Sandians and interns give back with science, technology, engineering, art and math opportunities for underprivileged youth.
Continue Reading California’s student interns teach next generation
Blueprints to better buildings
In-house architects, planners and craftspeople join hands to support mission work, while saving time and money on design and construction projects.
Building effective leaders from the ground up
Michele LaMontagne and her talent management team are leveling up leaders at the Labs through two improved training programs.
Continue Reading Building effective leaders from the ground up
Off-site work has little bearing on promotions
As working off-site has become a permanent option, many wonder if their work setup equates to “out of sight, out of mind.” But managers say, “No.”
Continue Reading Off-site work has little bearing on promotions
Sandia internships prove transformational for Prairie View A&M students
Hands-on experiences broaden interns’ understanding of national security imperatives.
Continue Reading Sandia internships prove transformational for Prairie View A&M students
Carlsbad site welcomes new leader
Greg Roselle returns to New Mexico to lead the Carlsbad site, bringing a wealth of professional and personal experience to the fore.
Sandians share stories of triumph in ‘A Better Life’
The first in their families to earn a college degree, five Sandians inspire in Hispanic Heritage Month signature event.
Continue Reading Sandians share stories of triumph in ‘A Better Life’
Sandia Blade Workshop celebrates 20 years
At this year's event, wind industry stakeholders were interested in discussions about balancing reliability and rapid growth.
Sandia study supports superior bits
Labs researchers are lending their expertise to the art of selecting the right drill bit for the challenging conditions at geothermal power plants, which can provide clean electricity all day, every day.
Smart Labs completes successful pilot
The program aims to make the laboratories safer, more energy efficient and ultimately better equipped to support our scientists and our mission.
The big drop
A Sandia team drops 3D-printed torpedo anchor prototypes from up to 30 feet in the air to determine an optimal anchor design for offshore use.
Great Minds in STEM recognizes Sandia microgrid engineer
Rachid Darbali-Zamora has been honored for his technical achievements and desire to provide "solutions for the little guy."
Continue Reading Great Minds in STEM recognizes Sandia microgrid engineer
Work toward a cleaner way to purify critical metals
Over the past three years, Sandia researchers have been pioneering an environmentally friendly alternative to separating rare-earth elements from watery mixtures.
Continue Reading Work toward a cleaner way to purify critical metals
Retired scientist’s influence still felt at Sandia today
Anita Renlund's work changed how Sandia understands explosives, but fewer people know of the impact she left on her colleagues.
Continue Reading Retired scientist’s influence still felt at Sandia today
Major upgrade to HOT Shot rocket program culminates in successful launch
The upgrade added new hardware necessary to recover the vehicle and new onboard memory chips, which researchers can retrieve after launch to gather 40 times more data than in previous missions.
Continue Reading Major upgrade to HOT Shot rocket program culminates in successful launch
Sandia teams receive DOE’s highest awards
Secretary of Energy Honor Awards announced
Sandia secures six regional technology transfer awards
Sandia has won six prestigious regional Federal Laboratory Consortium awards this year for responding with innovative solutions during the pandemic, developing solar cell and hydrogen research technology and creatively working with companies.
Continue Reading Sandia secures six regional technology transfer awards
Jackie Chen named DOE fellow
Jackie Chen, whose work on fundamental turbulence-chemistry interactions in combustion helped advance the design of automotive, gas turbine and jet engines, has been selected by DOE as a distinguished scientist fellow — one of only eight researchers in the nation to hold the distinction.
Secretary of Energy Achievement Awards
Sandians were members of several teams honored in November by then Energy Secretary Rick Perry in a ceremony at DOE headquarters. The teams received Secretary of Energy Achievement Awards, which recognize significant achievements by DOE employees and contractors.
Where STEM takes flight
Students, teachers and escorts from the McKinley School District’s STEM Core program toured Uncrewed Aircraft Systems Aviation Operations Unit.
Hacking safer communities
Sandians volunteered at two Explora-hosted events, Thunderbird Hacks and QuanTime, where they mentored students in coding a machine learning model and demonstrated quantum concepts.
The kids who get the shoes
Sandia has a decades-long tradition of making sure New Mexico children have new shoes.
Stronger together through self-care
Sandia rolls out Wellworks, a new app that promotes healthy living and rewards staff for making healthy choices.
Sandia’s economic impact soars to $5.2 billion in 2024
Sandia made its biggest financial impact ever in 2024, contributing billions to the economy in salaries, contracts with small businesses and more.
Continue Reading Sandia’s economic impact soars to $5.2 billion in 2024
Society of Women Engineers honors Sandia materials scientist
Erica Redline is recognized nationally for her mentoring leadership.
Continue Reading Society of Women Engineers honors Sandia materials scientist
Engineers Week 2025: Success as a result of the people
Meet four Sandia engineers and learn about the paths that led them to the Labs.
Continue Reading Engineers Week 2025: Success as a result of the people
Hacking safer communities
Sandians volunteered at two Explora-hosted events, Thunderbird Hacks and QuanTime, where they mentored students in coding a machine learning model and demonstrated quantum concepts.
SandiaAI chat: New tool for creating efficiencies
Sandia is the first facility in the nuclear security enterprise to provide employees with access to this powerful tool, enabling them to ask sensitive unclassified questions.
Continue Reading SandiaAI chat: New tool for creating efficiencies
HPC Report showcases innovations in computing
Sandia’s high-performance computing research enhances understanding of complex systems as chronicled in the Labs’ recently released HPC Annual Report.
Continue Reading HPC Report showcases innovations in computing
Sandia cofounds microelectronics research center
The Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies teaming up with other DOE centers to make computer chips more energy efficient.
Continue Reading Sandia cofounds microelectronics research center
Hey! Where’s my qubit?
Vanishing atoms can ruin quantum calculations. Scientists have a new plan to locate leaks.
Engineers Week 2025: Success as a result of the people
Meet four Sandia engineers and learn about the paths that led them to the Labs.
Continue Reading Engineers Week 2025: Success as a result of the people
Cybersecurity suite now on duty defending the nation
A suite of digital tools developed at Sandia can help provide multiple federal agencies with the capability to investigate and deter cyberattacks.
Continue Reading Cybersecurity suite now on duty defending the nation
Center for Cyber Defenders at center of digital evolution
Since its launch in 1999, more than 800 interns have worked in the center in New Mexico and California, forming a new generation of cybersecurity experts.
Continue Reading Center for Cyber Defenders at center of digital evolution
Researchers develop tantalizing method to study cyberdeterrence
Sandia developers build a multiplayer online war game to learn how people’s decisions during threatening situations can impact national security.
Continue Reading Researchers develop tantalizing method to study cyberdeterrence
Sandia researchers explore capabilities in popular AI models
Researchers test artificial intelligence models like ChatGPT 3.5 to discover their personalities, possibilities, risks and boundaries.
Continue Reading Sandia researchers explore capabilities in popular AI models
Inaugural Thunderbird Hacks hackathon sparks innovation
Community Involvement partnered with Sandia computer scientist Catherine Appleby and Explora Science Center and Children’s Museum to host its first high school hackathon.
Continue Reading Inaugural Thunderbird Hacks hackathon sparks innovation
DOE secretary visits Sandia
On Feb. 25, Secretary of Energy Chris Wright addressed staff, toured the Labs, met with leadership and received briefings on various programs and their contributions to national security.
National achievement award goes to Sandia engineer
Budi Gunawan has been recognized for his work in marine energy and river hydrodynamics.
Continue Reading National achievement award goes to Sandia engineer
Power boost: Resilient systems to energize the future
During Resilience Week, Sandia researchers considered ways to strengthen and protect the electric grid and other critical infrastructure.
Continue Reading Power boost: Resilient systems to energize the future
G3P3 nears completion
The Gen 3 Particle Pilot Plant will be the first to demonstrate an integrated system for particle-based concentrated solar power.
Sandia study supports superior bits
Labs researchers are lending their expertise to the art of selecting the right drill bit for the challenging conditions at geothermal power plants, which can provide clean electricity all day, every day.
Postdoctoral researchers compete in Bay Area SLAM
Postdocs from each of the Bay Area’s DOE labs showed up with their most innovative ideas and a crowd of enthusiastic supporters.
Continue Reading Postdoctoral researchers compete in Bay Area SLAM
Detecting battery failures quicker
Batteries in electric vehicles can fail quickly, sometimes catching fire without much warning. A Sandia team is working to detect failures early and give drivers more warning time.
Smart Labs completes successful pilot
The program aims to make the laboratories safer, more energy efficient and ultimately better equipped to support our scientists and our mission.
Sandia participates in voluntary review of nuclear security
The U.S. voluntarily participated in the International Atomic Energy Agency’s International Physical Protection Advisory Service mission, which included a stop at Sandia.
Continue Reading Sandia participates in voluntary review of nuclear security
Smart Labs pilot program takes off
A new program has launched in four buildings at Sandia that aims to increase safety and energy efficiency in laboratories. The team is assessing where to roll out Smart Labs next.
Protecting canisters against corrosion
Researchers test coatings on stainless steel, which is used for canisters that hold spent nuclear fuel, to determine the best materials to protect the containers from corrosive sea air.
Electric vehicle battery safety takes the front seat
A Sandia-led team is working to create more affordable, convenient, efficient and resilient electric vehicle batteries.
Continue Reading Electric vehicle battery safety takes the front seat
Building a team that builds
Learn how Jerod Bosey and Sandia's in-house design and construction teams are transforming the Labs.
Engineers Week 2025: Spotlight on the chief engineer of nuclear weapons
Lab News interviews Rita Gonzales about her role.
Continue Reading Engineers Week 2025: Spotlight on the chief engineer of nuclear weapons
Engineers Week 2025: Success as a result of the people
Meet four Sandia engineers and learn about the paths that led them to the Labs.
Continue Reading Engineers Week 2025: Success as a result of the people
National achievement award goes to Sandia engineer
Budi Gunawan has been recognized for his work in marine energy and river hydrodynamics.
Continue Reading National achievement award goes to Sandia engineer
Engineers Week
This week, during National Engineers Week, Sandia celebrates the accomplishments of engineers, technicians and technologists at the Labs.
Breakthroughs Favor the Bold
On Feb. 4, Sandians will hear what colleagues learned on projects that didn’t go as planned.
Environmental awards recognize groundwater protection, waste reduction effort
Two teams received Environmental Excellence Awards for their commitment to environmental stewardship.
Continue Reading Environmental awards recognize groundwater protection, waste reduction effort
Sandia works to protect electric grid from solar threats, nuclear detonation
Communication systems and infrastructure resilience experts from throughout the Labs collaborated to propose mitigation options to the Department of Homeland Security.
Continue Reading Sandia works to protect electric grid from solar threats, nuclear detonation
Sandia scientists achieve breakthrough in tackling PFAS contamination
A team is developing materials to tackle one of the biggest problems in the world and a major national security issue: human exposure to PFAS through contaminated water and other products.
Continue Reading Sandia scientists achieve breakthrough in tackling PFAS contamination
Sandians prepare community garden on Earth Day
A group of volunteers spread mulch and cleared brush at Rio Grande Food Project in Albuquerque.
Continue Reading Sandians prepare community garden on Earth Day
Let’s get cracking
Geoscientists have detected gases released from fractured rocks in real time, which could improve the prediction of earthquakes or help locate underground explosions.
2023 Environmental Excellence Awards winners announced
Staff members who helped Sandia reduce its impact on the environment will be recognized as part of Sandia’s Earth Month celebration.
Continue Reading 2023 Environmental Excellence Awards winners announced
Cultivating safety culture at Sandia
The National Safety Council honors industrial hygienist Christopher Quinn-Vawter for demonstrating leadership and fostering a strong culture of safety at the Labs.
Building muscle memory
Months of intense planning, organizing and coordinating culminated in Sandia’s Aug. 10 annual emergency exercise — a yearly workout to test its emergency response organization’s proficiency in responding to a site incident.
A new way to handle laptops with damaged batteries
In its first year, a partnership between ES&H and IT reduced electronic waste, improved device safety and saved thousands of dollars.
Continue Reading A new way to handle laptops with damaged batteries
Preserving the past
The first staff archaeologist at Sandia brings the "cool factor" to protecting history beneath the Labs.
Pivoting toward the pandemic
Lab News reflects on two years of COVID-19 and how Employee Health Services' rapid response has helped keep the workforce safe.
Demystifying inclement weather notifications
Learn about the types of messages that Sandians may receive as wintry weather hits.
Continue Reading Demystifying inclement weather notifications
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month together
Annual gathering features car show, mariachi performance, food and youth art.
Continue Reading Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month together
Sandians share stories of triumph in ‘A Better Life’
The first in their families to earn a college degree, five Sandians inspire in Hispanic Heritage Month signature event.
Continue Reading Sandians share stories of triumph in ‘A Better Life’
Back to where it started
Weapon Intern Program participants visited the Trinity Site in October. The site is only open to the public one day a year.
The kids who get the shoes
Sandia has a decades-long tradition of making sure New Mexico children have new shoes.
Building Sandia: 2000 to 2020
Learn how considerations for green building practices, energy efficiency and limited space influenced Labs architecture in the 2000s and 2010s.
Building Sandia: Rico Ortiz
Meet one of Sandia's first architects, hired over 30 years ago, and read his reflections on how Labs architecture has evolved.
The engineer whose technology found a home in a time capsule
Retired Sandian Andrew Rogulich's work came full circle at 75th Anniversary celebration.
Continue Reading The engineer whose technology found a home in a time capsule
Academic relationships continue to fuel legacy of innovation
The Sandia University Partnership Network has matched top talent with people who lead Sandia’s missions since 2015.
Continue Reading Academic relationships continue to fuel legacy of innovation
Sandia works to protect electric grid from solar threats, nuclear detonation
Communication systems and infrastructure resilience experts from throughout the Labs collaborated to propose mitigation options to the Department of Homeland Security.
Continue Reading Sandia works to protect electric grid from solar threats, nuclear detonation
International partnership focuses on insider threats
Participants representing more than 20 countries boost awareness of how to mitigate costly risks.
Continue Reading International partnership focuses on insider threats
Detecting nuclear materials using light
Blueshift Optics and a former Sandia employee are working to shift the way radioactive materials are detected, using technology that he helped create while working at the Labs.
Sandia marks 20-year partnership with Department of Homeland Security
Two years after Sept. 11, the newly organized Department of Homeland Security used Sandia’s relationship with NNSA to define the future of collaboration with all national labs.
Continue Reading Sandia marks 20-year partnership with Department of Homeland Security
Labs researchers capture six R&D 100 Awards
Honorees include a seizure-predicting device, software that optimizes network microgrids, tech that streamlines additive manufacturing and others.
Continue Reading Labs researchers capture six R&D 100 Awards
Sandia partners with other labs to bolster nuclear security
Staff from Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, Idaho National Laboratory and Sandia responded to a mock cyberattack and a simulated physical intrusion with the goal of improving overall security.
Continue Reading Sandia partners with other labs to bolster nuclear security
Open Enrollment for 2025 benefits
It's time for Sandians to choose medical, dental and vision plan options for 2025. Open Enrollment continues through Oct. 28.
Careerapalooza inspires opportunity for change
Undergrad summer intern Kyle Rex traveled from Texas to New Mexico to attend the three-day event. He didn't expect to find a clearer career path.
Continue Reading Careerapalooza inspires opportunity for change
Employee dollars set $6.5B record
Retirement benefits encourage employees to save and invest in their futures beyond Sandia.
Recently retired HR director named GOAT
The Society for Human Resources of New Mexico recognized Rob Nelson with the 2024 Greatest of All Time Legacy Award for his leadership at Sandia and contributions to the community.
A culture evolution
Last week, the Labs presented an event focused on moving away from a culture hindered by processes and risk aversion to one that embraces excellence and belonging.
Employees use new benefit for whatever floats their boat
Beginning this year, eligible employees receive two floating holidays, totaling 16 hours, each year. Seven Sandians share how they are using the new benefit.
Continue Reading Employees use new benefit for whatever floats their boat
The technology tie that binds
Sandia continues to embrace remote work as an impactful way to support the mission from across the nation.
Classified off-site hubs solidify Labs’ commitment to hybrid work
Three hubs have opened around the country, expanding the ability for remote workers and those who frequently travel to conduct classified work off-site.
Continue Reading Classified off-site hubs solidify Labs’ commitment to hybrid work
Hybrid and remote work here to stay
Building a hybrid work environment is a Sandia priority that will help attract and retain a talented workforce and ensure a modern, efficient, timely and compelling infrastructure that aids the national security mission.
Ergonomics is the backbone of employee health
Since COVID-19 began, thousands of Sandians have trusted the ergonomics team to evaluate their home offices and make safe and healthy improvements.
Continue Reading Ergonomics is the backbone of employee health
Perfecting the online and hybrid meeting
Barbara Lewis and Laura Lovato share their best tips for hosting productive and inclusive meetings for hybrid teams.
Hybrid work model advances
Three years since the pandemic began, many businesses have returned workers to their old office spaces. Sandia is doing things differently.
Building a team that builds
Learn how Jerod Bosey and Sandia's in-house design and construction teams are transforming the Labs.
Sandia, KCNSC launch Rapid Prototyping Maker Space
Sandia and Kansas City National Security Campus New Mexico Operations opened a state-of-the-art facility that will serve as a pilot for Sandia’s Center for Advanced Manufacturing and Innovation.
Continue Reading Sandia, KCNSC launch Rapid Prototyping Maker Space
Holo Huddle Rooms offer more realistic videoconferencing
The futuristic world of Star Trek’s Holodeck has been partially realized in videoconference rooms at Sandia.
Continue Reading Holo Huddle Rooms offer more realistic videoconferencing
Building Sandia: 2000 to 2020
Learn how considerations for green building practices, energy efficiency and limited space influenced Labs architecture in the 2000s and 2010s.
Building Sandia: Rico Ortiz
Meet one of Sandia's first architects, hired over 30 years ago, and read his reflections on how Labs architecture has evolved.
Then and now: Reactor facility
In 1959, the Sandia Engineering Reactor Facility was under construction. Take a look at how it stands today.
Building muscle memory
Months of intense planning, organizing and coordinating culminated in Sandia’s Aug. 10 annual emergency exercise — a yearly workout to test its emergency response organization’s proficiency in responding to a site incident.
Sandia Gives kicks off, supports nonprofits that promote financial planning and more
Each fall, Sandia partners with United Way to support its communities in New Mexico and California. In 2020, Sandia/California raised to a record $268,377 to support United Way Bay Area.
Ask Andy helps ease Facilities workload for managers, staff
Ask Andy helps ease Facilities workload for managers, staff
Continue Reading Ask Andy helps ease Facilities workload for managers, staff
State of the Labs 2020
Labs Director James Peery looks back at the accomplishments of Sandia’s workforce over the past year in the annual State of the Labs address.
Think 2 Up, Act 2 Over
When former Special Forces officer Ed Williams joined Sandia’s California site as a strategic planner last year, he was already well versed in Integrated Service Delivery. Here, he explains how to use the Think 2 Up, Act 2 Over approach to improve personal accountability and teaming for mission success.
Flight test succeeds despite pandemic limitations
Overcoming COVID-19 pandemic challenges through virtual means, teams from Sandia and the U.S. Air Force under the guidance of NNSA performed a critical B61-12 flight test aboard the F-35A Lightning II jet fighter.
Continue Reading Flight test succeeds despite pandemic limitations
Recycling products from the inside out
What if plastics could self-destruct when their time as a useful product was over? Scientists at Sandia are exploring the idea as a possible solution to plastic pollution.
Hey! Where’s my qubit?
Vanishing atoms can ruin quantum calculations. Scientists have a new plan to locate leaks.
Study asks: Can cellphone signals help land a plane?
Experimental navigation technology, developed in partnership between Sandia and Ohio State, could keep an airplane on course when GPS is unreliable.
Continue Reading Study asks: Can cellphone signals help land a plane?
Work toward a cleaner way to purify critical metals
Over the past three years, Sandia researchers have been pioneering an environmentally friendly alternative to separating rare-earth elements from watery mixtures.
Continue Reading Work toward a cleaner way to purify critical metals
Lighting the way for quantum innovation
A collaboration between Sandia and Arizona State University combines integrated photonics and light-wave frequency for novel quantum information processing.
Researchers develop tantalizing method to study cyberdeterrence
Sandia developers build a multiplayer online war game to learn how people’s decisions during threatening situations can impact national security.
Continue Reading Researchers develop tantalizing method to study cyberdeterrence
Signing the memory page
In honor of the final print issue of Lab News, a few past editors and contributors reminisce about their experiences working with and being part of the publication that has told the story of Sandia since 1948.
‘Stunning’ discovery: Metals can heal themselves
Researchers at Sandia and Texas A&M observed metal crack, then fuse back together without human intervention, overturning fundamental scientific theories in the process.
Continue Reading ‘Stunning’ discovery: Metals can heal themselves
Changing the world one dimple at a time
Together with the University of New Mexico, Sandia research is propelling the future of aerospace by infusing rocket science with a touch of golf ball magic.
Detecting threats beyond the limits of human, sensor sight
A team of computer scientists has developed a software system that can find and track moving objects as small as a pixel. The technology can be used to analyze video and images from satellites, drones and far-range security cameras.
Continue Reading Detecting threats beyond the limits of human, sensor sight
An unlikely plan helps fast-track conventional hypersonic weapons
Faced with an urgent mission, staff reshape how they work with industry.
Continue Reading An unlikely plan helps fast-track conventional hypersonic weapons
How we know they work
Located in Amarillo, Texas, the team at Sandia’s Weapons Evaluation Test Laboratory simulates everything a weapon would experience.
Successful sounding rocket campaign advances hypersonic weapon tech for Navy, Army
The vehicle spent about one minute above Mach 9 in a relevant altitude band, an unprecedented accomplishment for a sounding rocket.
Continue Reading Successful sounding rocket campaign advances hypersonic weapon tech for Navy, Army
Navigating when GPS goes dark
A team at Sandia envisions quantum inertial sensors as revolutionary, onboard navigational aids that could safely guide vehicles where GPS signals are jammed or lost.
World’s smallest, best acoustic amplifier emerges from 50-year-old hypothesis
Acousto-electric devices reveal new road to miniaturizing wireless tech
Continue Reading World’s smallest, best acoustic amplifier emerges from 50-year-old hypothesis
Sandia takes home six 2020 R&D 100 Awards
Sandia researchers have earned six R&D 100 Awards this year — three as sole winners and three with partner organizations — bringing the Labs’ total to 140 awards since 1976.
Innovate New Mexico features two Sandia inventors
The seventh annual Innovate New Mexico Technology Showcase gave researchers from institutions across the state the opportunity to pitch technologies to industry representatives and investors. Sandia sponsored the event this year, and two Labs researchers presented along with 10 scientists from six additional organizations.
Continue Reading Innovate New Mexico features two Sandia inventors
A material benefit to society
Sandia senior scientist Tina Nenoff, a perennial inventor of advanced materials, has been elected fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Tina was bestowed the honor by her peers “for outstanding accomplishments in nanoporous materials and technology through research and group effort leadership, particularly in ion and gas separations for energy and environmental applications.”
Advanced microscopy reveals unusual DNA structure
An advanced imaging technique reveals new structural details of S-DNA, ladder-like DNA that forms when the molecule experiences extreme tension. This work conducted at Sandia and Vrije University in the Netherlands provides the first experimental evidence that S-DNA contains highly tilted base pairs.
Continue Reading Advanced microscopy reveals unusual DNA structure
'Switching on' iron in clay minerals
Sandia researchers have discovered a mechanism to “switch on” iron residing in clay mineral structures, leading to an understanding of how to make iron reactive under oxygen-free conditions. This research will help scientists understand and predict how contaminants move through the environment and enter waterways.
B61-12 system production ends, sustainment begins
Sandia and the nuclear security enterprise completed the last production unit of the B61-12 nuclear gravity bomb, a significant milestone for the nation’s nuclear deterrence program.
Continue Reading B61-12 system production ends, sustainment begins
Immersing in Sandia’s mission
Sandia hosts Air Force Capt. Joshua Widick for Education with Industry fellowship.
Executive excellence
From Sandia to NNSA and back, read about Deb Marchand's trailblazing assignment in support of Administrator Jill Hruby and national security.
Emergency Management puts itself to the test
When a mock 5.6-magnitude earthquake strikes north-central New Mexico, then simulated hackers launch cyberattacks, Emergency Management responds quickly during Sandia's annual exercise.
Continue Reading Emergency Management puts itself to the test
USSTRATCOM commander and NNSA administrator address Sandians
National security leaders discuss today’s complex and evolving strategic landscape.
Continue Reading USSTRATCOM commander and NNSA administrator address Sandians
Steadying the hands of time
Sandia’s partnership with Japanese company approaches an atomic clock breakthrough.
National security leader Laura McGill named next director of Sandia
Laura will become Sandia’s 17th Labs director, effective May 1.
Continue Reading National security leader Laura McGill named next director of Sandia
Engineers Week 2025: Spotlight on the chief engineer of nuclear weapons
Lab News interviews Rita Gonzales about her role.
Continue Reading Engineers Week 2025: Spotlight on the chief engineer of nuclear weapons
Engineers Week 2025: Success as a result of the people
Meet four Sandia engineers and learn about the paths that led them to the Labs.
Continue Reading Engineers Week 2025: Success as a result of the people
B61-12 system production ends, sustainment begins
Sandia and the nuclear security enterprise completed the last production unit of the B61-12 nuclear gravity bomb, a significant milestone for the nation’s nuclear deterrence program.
Continue Reading B61-12 system production ends, sustainment begins
Engineers Week
This week, during National Engineers Week, Sandia celebrates the accomplishments of engineers, technicians and technologists at the Labs.
The devil is in the details
Meet Sandia engineer Nate Brannon and the enterprise-wide team that is using a clean-sheet approach to develop a better, faster, cheaper process for delivering weapon systems.
Remembering Paul Cooper
Paul Cooper, one of the world’s foremost explosives experts, passed away recently at the age of 83. Paul retired from Sandia in 2012, but his explosives research, seminal textbook and mentorship of future scientists lives on at the Labs and in other organizations internationally.
Chuck Loeber’s legacy
Chuck Loeber spent 50 years working in the nuclear weapons complex, with the last 20 as an employee and consultant at Sandia. He helped stand up neutron generator manufacturing in the 1990s and oriented a generation of new hires to Sandia and its responsibilities, teaching the popular History of the Nuclear Weapons Complex courses at the Labs and writing a well-known book on the subject. He died on May 10.
Irwin Welber, Sandia’s 9th president, passes away at 92
Irwin Welber, Sandia’s 9th president, passes away at 92
Continue Reading Irwin Welber, Sandia’s 9th president, passes away at 92
B61-12 system production ends, sustainment begins
Sandia and the nuclear security enterprise completed the last production unit of the B61-12 nuclear gravity bomb, a significant milestone for the nation’s nuclear deterrence program.
Continue Reading B61-12 system production ends, sustainment begins
Sandia’s economic impact soars to $5.2 billion in 2024
Sandia made its biggest financial impact ever in 2024, contributing billions to the economy in salaries, contracts with small businesses and more.
Continue Reading Sandia’s economic impact soars to $5.2 billion in 2024
Sandia cofounds microelectronics research center
The Center for Integrated Nanotechnologies teaming up with other DOE centers to make computer chips more energy efficient.
Continue Reading Sandia cofounds microelectronics research center
Hey! Where’s my qubit?
Vanishing atoms can ruin quantum calculations. Scientists have a new plan to locate leaks.
Immersing in Sandia’s mission
Sandia hosts Air Force Capt. Joshua Widick for Education with Industry fellowship.
Bridging the gap between Sandia and HBCUs
In 2020, when Rahni Kellum noticed a gap within Sandia’s Academic Alliance Program, she did a lot more than speak up.
Back to where it started
Weapon Intern Program participants visited the Trinity Site in October. The site is only open to the public one day a year.
DOE secretary visits Sandia
On Feb. 25, Secretary of Energy Chris Wright addressed staff, toured the Labs, met with leadership and received briefings on various programs and their contributions to national security.
Career journeys unveiled
Labs Director James Peery and Associate Labs Director of Integrated Security Solutions Andy McIlroy discussed their career journeys at a recent Careerapalooza event.
National security leader Laura McGill named next director of Sandia
Laura will become Sandia’s 17th Labs director, effective May 1.
Continue Reading National security leader Laura McGill named next director of Sandia
One fluid motion as heavy as possible
Software engineer and Olympic weightlifter Andi Johnson was on track to compete in the American Open Series Finals in December when a semitruck derailed her plans. Now, she's reset her goal and shares what she's learned along the way.
Engineers Week 2025: Spotlight on the chief engineer of nuclear weapons
Lab News interviews Rita Gonzales about her role.
Continue Reading Engineers Week 2025: Spotlight on the chief engineer of nuclear weapons
Labs mentor program engages minority students, aims to attract STEM hires
The Rio Grande Consortium for Advanced Research on Exascale Simulation, known as Grande CARES, offers science and technology learning to student minorities.
Continue Reading Labs mentor program engages minority students, aims to attract STEM hires
Reusable respirator could ease COVID-19 medical mask shortages
Sandia retools facilities to design, test sterilizable mask
Continue Reading Reusable respirator could ease COVID-19 medical mask shortages
State of the Labs 2020
Labs Director James Peery looks back at the accomplishments of Sandia’s workforce over the past year in the annual State of the Labs address.
Battling COVID-19 with CRISPR
Two Sandia researchers are using genetic resequencing tools to find a way to stop the COVID-19 pandemic in its tracks. Biochemist Joe Schoeniger and virologist Oscar Negrete are working on genetically engineering a deployable antiviral countermeasure for COVID-19 using CRISPR-based technology.
Heroes waiting to be discovered
Since the beginnings of Sandia National Laboratories, Sandians have made the unthinkable not only thinkable, but also plannable and doable. Over time, we’ve tempered ourselves, studying and devising an assortment of ways to deter, defend against and blunt all manner of threats.
State of the Labs
Labs Director Steve Younger gave his annual State of the Labs address on Oct. 30, encouraging Sandians to pause and think about what we’ve accomplished and where Sandia is headed. He described numerous accomplishments and praised Labs employees for taking intellectual leadership in defining the future of nuclear deterrence.
Maximizing healthcare benefits in the new year
Many staff members and retirees selected new insurance plans for 2022. Learn how to make the most of benefits at Sandia.
Continue Reading Maximizing healthcare benefits in the new year
Sandia to offer new healthcare plan option during Open Enrollment
The Health Savings Plan premiums will cost about 25% less for most employees. Open Enrollment begins Oct. 25.
Continue Reading Sandia to offer new healthcare plan option during Open Enrollment
Retaining knowledge of nuclear waste management
Sandia experts share experience in storage, transportation, disposal with next generation
Continue Reading Retaining knowledge of nuclear waste management
Lab News: A history in print
As the Lab News print edition comes to an end, Sandia historian Rebecca Ullrich takes a look back at the history of the publication from its beginnings in 1948, when a mimeographed employee newsletter, the Sandia Bulletin, first appeared.
Rodney Wilson receives NNSA Gold Award
Rodney Wilson, former director of Sandia’s Center for Global Security and Cooperation, received the NNSA Administrator’s Distinguished Service Gold Award this year in recognition of his leadership and service to advance NNSA programs.
Sandia’s half-life
Sandia photojournalist Randy Montoya has spent more than 30 years capturing the work and people at the Labs through his lens. In honor of the final Lab News print issue, he looks back at some of the photos that have illustrated Sandia’s story.
How to cultivate connection at Sandia
Mathematician Bert Debusschere shows how interpersonal connection can thrive at the Labs.
USSTRATCOM commander and NNSA administrator address Sandians
National security leaders discuss today’s complex and evolving strategic landscape.
Continue Reading USSTRATCOM commander and NNSA administrator address Sandians
3D-printed part adds value to wind power
A new turbine blade tip promises to make wind energy production more efficient.
Hemlines and blue jeans: Sandia’s fashion evolution
From polyester to perms, the Lab News archives offer a snapshot of 75 years of Sandia style.
Continue Reading Hemlines and blue jeans: Sandia’s fashion evolution
National achievement awards go to two Sandia engineers
Society of Asian Scientists and Engineers lauds Patrick Feng and Thushara Gunda for leadership, accomplishments in STEM.
Continue Reading National achievement awards go to two Sandia engineers
Early-career researcher represents Sandia at inaugural National Research SLAM
Postdocs from the national labs, including Sandia’s Megan Dahlhauser, showcase their innovative work in a fast-paced competition in Washington, D.C.
Continue Reading Early-career researcher represents Sandia at inaugural National Research SLAM
Security team upgrades travel processes, earns NNSA coin
Coin presentations are a new way the NNSA is recognizing Sandians who cut red tape and speed innovation and product delivery. Read about two teams who recently received NNSA coins.
Continue Reading Security team upgrades travel processes, earns NNSA coin
Cutting-edge complex
Sandia ushers in new era of preparedness by opening its new Emergency Operations Center this month.
One year, many successes
The Mentor-Protégé Program finished its first year of making a big impact on small businesses.
A global shift for national security
The Labs’ response to threats posed by terrorism and anthrax attacks still shape its mission and programs 20 years later.
Redesigning radiation monitors at U.S. ports
The Department of Homeland Security turned to Sandia and Pacific Northwest national laboratories to develop a new modular design that decreases costs and enhances threat detection.
Continue Reading Redesigning radiation monitors at U.S. ports
Sandia engineer turns error detection into ‘secret language’ for enhanced data security
While researching ways to decrease errors in electronic messages, computer scientist Celestino Corral invented a method that could make messages, like email, more difficult for unauthorized “listeners” to decode.
Sandia tests heat shields for space
In support of two NASA missions, Sandia’s solar tower harnessed the power of the sun to expose aerospace materials to intense heat, replicating the harsh conditions of faster-than-sound flight and atmospheric reentry.
Deflecting doom: How Sandia research could save Earth from asteroids
Free-floating experiments at Z machine provide data to prepare for the unimaginable.
Continue Reading Deflecting doom: How Sandia research could save Earth from asteroids
There goes the sun: annular solar eclipse
The Oct. 14 annular eclipse as seen at the National Solar Thermal Test Facility.
Happy 60th birthday to Vela, watchman for nuclear detonations
Labs historian recounts the story behind the satellites launched to explore the feasibility of detecting nuclear detonations in outer space.
Continue Reading Happy 60th birthday to Vela, watchman for nuclear detonations
Beyond Bennu: How OSIRIS-REx is helping scientists study the sonic signature of meteoroids
Scientists hope data will improve detection of hypersonic objects.
Computer model of atmosphere finalist for prestigious new prize
A record-setting feat on the world’s first exascale supercomputer contends for a Gordon Bell award.
Continue Reading Computer model of atmosphere finalist for prestigious new prize
Sandia’s economic impact soars to $5.2 billion in 2024
Sandia made its biggest financial impact ever in 2024, contributing billions to the economy in salaries, contracts with small businesses and more.
Continue Reading Sandia’s economic impact soars to $5.2 billion in 2024
Materials scientist elected to National Academy of Inventors
Sandia Fellow Tina Nenoff's election to the academy reflects the breadth and impact of her work.
Continue Reading Materials scientist elected to National Academy of Inventors
3-to-1 matchmaking transforms supplier outreach at Sandia and beyond
The Small Business Outreach team connects suppliers and potential buyers through a model that is being adopted by other national laboratories.
Continue Reading 3-to-1 matchmaking transforms supplier outreach at Sandia and beyond
Sandia Blade Workshop celebrates 20 years
At this year's event, wind industry stakeholders were interested in discussions about balancing reliability and rapid growth.
Old ways transformed by new solution
Cost-effective modern engineering technology brings water to livestock on the Navajo Nation.
Boosting battery research
Sandia researchers are working to make large backup batteries that cost less, hold more energy and are less likely to burst into flame.