As a Texas Tech Alumna, Abigail Kim is proud to represent the Red Raiders at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory’s National Ignition Facility (NIF) in Livermore California.
NIF is the world's largest and highest-energy laser. It is composed of 192 laser beams
that hit a target the size of a pencil eraser. All 192 laser beams need to reach the
target at the same time to support the phenomena of fusion. Abigail's position as
an Optoelectronics engineer for the NIF timing systems has her managing the trigger
timing of all 192 laser beams, as well as hundreds of diagnostics, within a magnitude
of picoseconds. NIF recently had a huge break through discovery wherein after “60
years of exploration and experimentation in inertial confinement fusion (ICF)…NIF
produced 3.15 megajoules (MJ) of fusion energy output using 2.05 MJ of laser energy
delivered to the target, demonstrating the fundamental science basis for inertial
fusion energy” [1]. Abigail states that working for the Lab has been an amazing experience.
She is proud to be part of a team that is making large strides in renewable energy
research. Abigail attributes her passion for learning and exploration to her experience
at Texas Tech University. The wonderful faculty, staff, and peers that helped her
succeed academically and socially have molded her into the professional she is today.
Source:
1. Bishop, Breanna. "National Ignition Facility achieves fusion ignition." Lawrence
Livermore
National Laboratory, 14 Dec. 2022. Web https://www.llnl.gov/news/national-ignition-facility-achieves-fusion-ignition
Tell me about what first interested you in electrical engineering?
I chose electrical engineering because at the time i thought it would the fastest way to get into the field of biomedical engineering. I had an interest in biology and knew I wanted to try engineering out for myself. Biomedical engineering was a very niche sub-type of engineering, so I decided to try a more broad range subject for my undergraduate degree. This way I could become more specialized for later degree programs. As with most new students, my interests started to shift while completing my first two years of general classes. I found myself more drawn to the power electronics aspect of electrical engineering. My time at Texas Tech really showed me the different types of engineering, and what makes each one so unique and beneficial for society.
You said that the National Ignition Facility has had a huge breakthrough for fusion energy, how does it feel to be a part of that and to accomplish such a big goal?
It feels amazing to be part of something so great, but also very intimidating at times. It draws similar but not exact parallels to that of the space race back in the 1950-70s. Many engineers and scientists are working around the world to make strides toward a common goal. Sustainable fusion energy. Yet even though the goal is common, it's a race to see who gets there first. Such is the matter of scientific explorations. Achieve a consistent or greater yield with faster results each time an experiment is set.
What does this type of research mean for the future of electrical engineering?
I would say this type of research means more job opportunities. It takes a lot of work to experiment with, operate, and one day commercialize renewable energy sources.
What does this type of research mean for the future worldwide?
This research creates a potential renewable resource to replace coal and gas.
What would you tell a student that's just starting out in electrical engineering?
I would encourage them to learn an efficient way to study, and learn how to use device datasheets to their advantage early on. I would also encourage them to try different subjects of interest.
Do you have any inspirational words of encouragement to women that would want to follow in your footsteps?
I would say to not be embarrassed to ask questions. Sometimes there is a sense of confidence your peers exhibit that you may not have during the program that will make you feel inadequate to compete. Either they may not know what is going on and are pretending to follow or they have just had previous experience with the subject. Becoming your own best advocate is an important lesson to learn early on in your career.
Note: This Alumni submission represents Abigail Kim's personal opinion and is not an official Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLC (LLNS) opinion.