Image Provided by West Texas A&M University
Newly created role developed to accelerate modernization, expand R&D, and deepen regional academic partnerships
AMARILLO, TX–PanTeXas Deterrence LLC (PXD), the management and operating contractor of the Pantex Plant, has named distinguished educator and materials researcher Dr. Emily Hunt as its inaugural Chief Technology Officer (CTO).
The newly created executive post marks a forward-thinking investment in Pantex’s future, designed to advance its technical posture, accelerate site-wide modernization, and expand research and development capabilities central to the nuclear security enterprise, as prioritized by President Donald Trump in modernizing America’s nuclear production capacity. As CTO, Dr. Hunt will serve as the plant's lead scientist, steering the long-term innovation strategy and cultivating next-generation scientific capabilities.
"Dr. Hunt brings a unique blend of nationally recognized scientific acumen, executive leadership, and deep regional roots to Pantex," said Dr. Kelly Beierschmitt, President and General Manager of PXD. "Her proven track record in applied science, energetic materials research, and workforce development directly aligns with our mission to modernize and innovate. Appointing an executive who understands both our mission requirements and the strength of the Texas Panhandle's higher education ecosystem position us to lead the enterprise forward from day one."
A Proven Innovator with Deep Regional Ties
A mechanical engineer by training, Dr. Hunt earned her bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. from Texas Tech University. Her relationship with Pantex spans more than two decades, beginning as an engineering intern on-site before establishing an international reputation in energetic materials, explosive processing, and nanocomposites.
Dr. Hunt joins Pantex from West Texas A&M University (WTAMU), where she has served since 2005. As the founding dean of WTAMU's College of Engineering in 2020, she transformed engineering education across the region, building public-private research alliances and graduating top-tier engineering talent who now serve critical roles throughout the national security enterprise. Most recently, she served as WTAMU’s Associate Vice President for Research Development and Innovation.
Across her academic tenure, Dr. Hunt secured more than $11 million in competitive research funding, founded the Energetic Materials Laboratory, and established the Panhandle Institute for Engineering Research. An inventor and prolific scholar, she holds multiple U.S. patents, has authored nine books and more than 90 publications, and remains a national champion for STEM workforce pipelines.
Returning Full Circle to Advance National Security
Dr. Hunt’s appointment bridges academia, regional talent development, and vital national deterrence missions.
"Returning to Pantex to build this new office is both an honor and a meaningful homecoming," said Dr. Hunt. "My career has been dedicated to solving complex technical challenges while cultivating the next generation of engineers and scientists in the Panhandle. I am thrilled to partner with Pantex’s exceptional team to expand our cutting-edge R&D, drive scientific excellence, and ensure our national security posture remains stronger than ever."
PanTeXas Deterrence, LLC (PXD) is the management and operating contractor for the National Nuclear Security Administration’s Pantex Plant located in Carson County near Amarillo, Texas. Pantex maintains the safety, security, and effectiveness of the nation’s nuclear weapons stockpile. PXD is a joint venture led by a BWX Technologies, Inc. (BWXT) subsidiary – it also includes Fluor; SOC, A Day & Zimmermann Company; and The Texas A&M University System.
For more information on Pantex, visit www.pantex.energy.gov. Follow Pantex on Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
CONTACT
Steve Myers
Communications
(C) 806-236-2826
stephen.myers@pantex.doe.gov