The Laboratory's Challenge Tomorrow STEM education trailers brought hands-on science activities to 143 students at the New Mexico School for the Deaf in Santa Fe March 21. Interpreters from the school worked alongside the 27 volunteer Challenge Ambassadors from across the Laboratory as students from grades four to 12 tried activities at interactive stations covering a range of topics including space, bioscience and environmental protection. These experiences allowed the students to try out real tools and equipment, to learn about STEM, to explore jobs that exist in New Mexico (particularly at the Laboratory), and to envision themselves with a future in STEM.
Looking for deep-tech entrepreneurs
Applications are currently open for the NM LEEP program, which offers early-stage entrepreneurs a unique chance to advance their deep-tech startup in New Mexico. Focused on advanced materials, biotech, quantum computing, AI, energy transition, and space systems, the program aims to fast-track solutions for significant national challenges and it has already enabled five Fellows to secure nearly $4M in funding. Supported by a tailored business curriculum and technical collaborations with LANL experts, Fellows also benefit from an annual stipend, customized training, personal mentorship, and investor and customer connections. The deadline for applications is May 13.
LANL hosts virtual public town hall in Santa Fe
Viewers from around the region tuned in April 3 for a virtual public town hall featuring Laboratory Director Thom Mason and Community Partnerships Director Kathy Keith. Filming live at the Lab’s leased facility on Pacheco Street in Santa Fe, the pair covered a wide range of topics including pit production, vehicle safety, economic development, and hiring. They also took questions from online viewers.
Mason discussed the Laboratory’s shift into a period of measured growth during which the institution’s hiring and budget numbers are expected to plateau. On the safety front, he talked through LANL’s efforts to curb traffic-related incidents and pointed to increased uptime in facilities as a result of strong safety performance.
A recap and recording of the event is available here.