Welcome to this edition of National Security Science magazine, which focuses on the importance of diversity and inclusion at Los Alamos National Laboratory. From its inception, our iconic Laboratory has provided solutions to national security challenges and has been a leader in cutting-edge science because of its ability to attract and leverage diverse talent from across the planet.
To say that terms like diversity, inclusion, equity, and belonging are important to Los Alamos National Laboratory is an understatement. These words are not only important, but also essential: essential to how we develop teams, how we conduct our work, and how we ultimately come together—each unique individual bringing their authentic best—to solve problems of the utmost significance.
Of course, we also recognize that work in this arena is never-ending. No matter how much progress we have made in the areas of diversity, inclusion, equity, and belonging, we know there is always more that can be done. It is this ability to recognize that we can do better, listen to one another, share lessons learned, and forge new paths forward that keeps the Laboratory relevant in a constantly changing world.
In this issue, you will learn more about the importance of diversity in the Laboratory’s founding and the perspectives of our senior leaders. You will read about the amazing contributions of our diverse employees, 36 of whom are profiled here. As Hazuki Teshima, a Lab technologist, says, “This is is a unique place, open to all types of people and backgrounds.”
In addition to our diverse workforce, our work is also diverse. Yes, we are primarily a national security science laboratory, but our work also includes developing isotopes that the medical community uses in everything from heart imaging to cancer treatment and diagnostics, unlocking the mysteries of new particles in the universe, and researching what happens when cosmic rays strike electrical circuits, like those found in airplanes and satellites.
Making sure our newest employees understand and appreciate the scope of our work is increasingly important. That’s why we’re extra grateful for colleagues such as Jim Goforth, who at 74 years old, is passionate about educating the youngest generation here at Los Alamos. Click here to read more about Jim’s work at a remote explosives site in the bottom of a canyon.
I hope you will enjoy this celebration of diversity at Los Alamos National Laboratory. Our Laboratory is truly a great place to work, and without a doubt, our people make it so special. ★