In this special 200th episode of NucleCast, Jill Hruby, the Administrator of NNSA and Undersecretary of the Department of Energy for Nuclear Security, discusses the achievements and challenges faced by NNSA during her tenure, including the modernization of nuclear weapons, strengthening international partnerships, and the importance of infrastructure projects. Jill shares insights on the Strategic Posture Commission's recommendations, the plans for pit production, and the significance of the National Ignition Facility (NIF). She emphasizes the need for a renewed focus on nuclear IQ and offers advice for future leadership in the nuclear enterprise.

Administrator Jill Hruby was Senate confirmed as the Under Secretary for Nuclear Security of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and Administrator of the National Nuclear Security Administration in 2021.

Administrator Hruby leads NNSA in achieving our Nation’s nuclear security missions to sustain and fully understand our nuclear weapons stockpile; provide new technologies and procedures to lower cost and reduce the time to deliver all mission requirements; staying ahead of our adversaries; and developing advanced capabilities to enhance nuclear security, arms control, and Navy reactors.

Prior to her nomination as Administrator, Ms. Hruby served as Director of Sandia National Laboratories from 2015-17 and has an extensive background in science and engineering spanning more than 40 years.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to NNSA and Jill Hruby

01:31 Reflecting on Achievements and Challenges

04:34 Infrastructure Projects and Challenges

10:18 Strategic Posture Commission Insights

12:30 Pit Production Plans and Timelines

16:31 NIF and Its Significance

19:41 Increased Activity Across NNSA

22:17 Advice for Future Leadership

26:08 Wishes for the Nuclear Enterprise

29:53 Parting Message and Future Outlook

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