Special Technologies Laboratory (STL), a vital research and development (R&D) laboratory within the Nevada National Security Sites (NNSS), celebrated its 40th anniversary Jan. 6, 2026.
STL is a multi-mission support organization benefiting the Department of Energy’s stockpile stewardship, physical security, and nonproliferation organizations, as well as other programs associated with the NNSS. Among its key capabilities are: integrated device and systems engineering; electronic and mechanical prototype fabrication; nonproliferation research and development; experimental physics; and information science. Most importantly, perhaps, STL has continually evolved over the decades. From its foundational years pioneering uniquely customized solutions to today, STL proactively delivers sophisticated and unparalleled custom solutions to address national security requirements, cementing its vital role within the NNSS, National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) and partner agencies.
A legacy of dedication and impact
“STL’s legacy is a direct testament to the extraordinary skills and unwavering dedication of our entire team,” said STL Director Dana Motley. “Every individual has poured relentless effort into developing and championing technology solutions, driving STL’s success. Our commitment to solving problems for our customers has solidified STL’s standing as a hub for innovation, embracing the lessons of our past and propelling us forward.”
Four decades of defining milestones
STL’s timeline showcases its unwavering focus on supporting the weapons test program, accelerator operations and diagnostics development, and R&D in nuclear detection technology, marked by groundbreaking firsts and unparalleled innovations. Here is a small glimpse into 40 years of remarkable achievements:
1980s – STL successfully completed construction of its state-of-the-art anechoic chamber, meticulously engineered to advance cutting-edge radio frequency technology development.
1990s – Among notable advancements in stockpile stewardship capabilities, STL also achieved the first significant breakthrough in developing a portable radar system capable of imaging through concrete to reveal room contents. This system laid the foundation for custom radar applications.
2000s – In 2001, STL deployed the Rescue Radar and technical team in response to the World Trade Center attack on Sept. 11.
“I served as director of STL from 2002 to 2016, a period shaped by the response to the 9/11 attacks,” said former STL Director Mike Martinez. “During that time, the lab rapidly expanded its technical capabilities and workforce. STL became a unique science and technology laboratory specializing in the rapid development of technical solutions that met the mission-critical requirements of special organizations within the U.S. government.”
In 2009, STL’s mission received official recognition from the U.S. Department of Energy/NNSA, formally acknowledging the lab’s intensified alignment with the crucial needs of the Intelligence Community.
2020s – STL spearheaded the advancement of next-generation diagnostics for certifying the national stockpile through the pivotal Asay Window Diagnostic Development project.
“The ability to evolve with the continually changing nature of the national security mission has kept STL relevant and an integral part of the NNSS, said Dr. Pam Rangel, STL Director from 2017-2022. “In moments of critical response, the people of STL have provided measured and thoughtful solutions to difficult problems, often leveraging experience from one domain to help in another.”
Despite the evolution of technology and its missions, the one constant in STL’s four decades of service and innovation has been its workforce. “The people of STL and the extraordinary technical contributions we made together kept me continuously energized and deeply proud to be part of the lab,” said Martinez. Dr. Rangel concurs, noting: “STL has always been about its people: their collaboration, cooperation, camaraderie and collective dedication to the national security mission.”
