The Texas Tech Innovation Hub hosts its second annual program empowering the next generation of innovators set to make an impact in national security!
Aimed at nurturing the next generation of engineers and STEM professionals, the Pantex Plant and Texas Tech University have announced the continuation of their partnership. Central to its effort is the Pantex Innovation Challenge, a program hosted by the Texas Tech Innovation Hub to engage Red Raiders in solving real-world challenges related to national security.
The Pantex Plant, a high-security facility located in Amarillo, Texas, is the nation’s primary facility for the assembly, disassembly, and maintenance of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile. In alignment with its mission to support national security, Pantex has teamed up with the Hub to provide a pathway for students interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) fields. The partnership emphasizes the importance of preparing students for careers in national security through mentorship, hands-on experience, and innovative problem-solving.
“The enhanced partnership between Pantex and Texas Tech University is symbiotic in that it will enable another level of innovation and benefit to each organization,” said Pantex Site Manager Colby Yeary. “With this partnership, Pantexans will learn about the latest technologies, processes and innovators that can provide value to our site, while Red Raiders will have increased exposure to Pantex, including career opportunities that may align well to their professional goals and skill sets. It's a textbook definition of a win-win scenario.”
Fostering Innovation for National Security
On September 20th, the Hub hosted over 40 students and directors from the Pantex Plant for the Pantex Innovation Challenge. The one-day event brings together some of the brightest at Texas Tech, challenging them to develop cutting-edge solutions to complex engineering challenges posed by the Pantex Plant.
"It's been amazing. I'm two hours away from presenting a solution to a problem that I learned about three hours ago, I'm working with great people, and learning from a fantastic mentor," said Jordan Bonaldo, a undergraduate student studying engineering, during an interview on Friday. "I highly recommend attending this program! Today has been a great experience and I can't wait to see where this opportunity leads."
This year, 7 were formed based on the proposed problem sets. Red Raiders, led by a staff member from Pantex, worked together to tackle a wide range of challenges, such as enhanced safety measures for assembly and disassembly and innovations in secure communication systems between departments. Participants received mentorship from their Pantex liaison and attended workshops that helped them identify the unique value of their innovative solution and how to capitalize on it as if they were consultants for Pantex.
“It’s exciting to see our students rise to the challenge, knowing they are contributing to something much larger than themselves. Together with the Pantex Plant, the Innovation Hub is providing students with an unparalleled opportunity to apply their academic knowledge to national security problems that demand innovation,” shares Taysha Williams, Managing Director of the Texas Tech Innovation Hub.
By the end of the day, participants presented their ideas to Pantex and Innovation Hub leadership showcasing what they’d learned and how their technology could solve a unique challenge. Three teams were then selected to receive $7,000 cash prizes and an invitation from Pantex to visit the Amarillo-based site.
Building a Workforce for the Future
One of the primary goals of the Pantex Innovation Challenge is to develop a pipeline of talent for careers in national security. The program provides students the opportunity to showcase their passion and talent, all while giving them exposure to how their work can directly impact national safety.
Beyond the one-day competition, many participants are offered internships that can lead to full-time positions at Pantex post-graduation. Several students from last year’s Pantex Innovation Challenge worked with leaders within the Pantex Plant.
“Working alongside experts in the field, I’ve been able to apply what I’ve learned in the classroom to real-world problems that lead to a real impact, not only for the team I work with, but also directly impact the nation,” shares one Red Raider. “The experience has not only sharpened my knowledge but given me a clearer understanding of the importance of this work. It’s been both challenging and rewarding, and I feel more prepared than ever for my future career.”
A Growing Partnership
As the Pantex Plant and Texas Tech Innovation Hub continue to strengthen their partnership, both institutions remain committed to fostering innovation, leadership, and technical expertise among the next generation of engineers and STEM professionals. The Pantex Innovation Challenge will remain a cornerstone of this collaboration, providing students with opportunities to grow as innovators and problem-solvers while contributing to the mission of safeguarding national security.