Business News and Developments in the Amarillo Area on April 21, 2024

The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) recently recognized eight teams at the Pantex Plant and the Y-12 National Security Complex with Defense Programs Awards of Excellence. These awards were given to teams that contributed significantly to national security by meeting or exceeding mission criteria set for the sites. Over 200 Consolidated Nuclear Security (CNS) employees were honored for their work on these team projects.

Established in 1982, the Defense Programs Awards of Excellence aim to acknowledge individual and team accomplishments in support of the NNSA nuclear weapons program. An executive review panel selects the winners annually.

During a ceremony in Amarillo to honor the winners, Pantex Site Manager Colby Yeary emphasized the importance of excellence in fulfilling the mission assigned to Pantex. John Evans, NNSA Principal Assistant Deputy Administrator for Stockpile Management, commended the teams for their tireless work and sacrifices in maintaining a standard of excellence.

The awards recognized work that took place in 2022. At Pantex, three projects were honored, including the establishment of a new capability, addressing material demand issues, and ensuring production technicians are well-trained and ready to contribute quickly.

One of the recognized projects at Pantex involved scaling up production of a new explosive material for the first time since 2006. The High Explosives Pilot-Scale Manufacturing team played a crucial role in supporting milestones related to manufacturing readiness and producing quality products vital to the mission.

Additionally, the Weapon Material Program team at Pantex implemented new tools and process improvements to meet material demands, while the Organizational Development and Training Support of Enhanced Training/Onboarding team enhanced training plans for production technicians, enabling them to start work on mission deliverables more efficiently.

For more information on each site and the projects, visit www.pantex.energy.gov or www.y12.doe.gov. Follow Y-12 and Pantex on social media platforms for updates and news.