Events

Science on Tap: The Evolution of U.S. Nuclear Weapon System Safety

Curious about the safety measures surrounding U.S. nuclear weapons? Join us for Science on Tap on Friday, June 6th, for an accessible and informative presentation. You'll learn about the evolution of nuclear weapon safety, from its initial stages to the sophisticated systems in place today. Discover how design changes, historical events, and continuous innovation have contributed to the robust safety features and operational protocols that ensure peacetime security. This talk will provide a clear understanding of the current high safety standards and the ongoing dedication to improvement.

Experience science in a relaxed setting! Grab a drink and join us at the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History for this engaging Science on Tap event.

Discover the surprising connections between weapon design evolution, past incidents, and the remarkable advancements that have led to today's high safety standards, as well as an opportunity to enjoy a delicious beer from Bombs Away Brewery.

Join us on Friday, June 6, 2025, at the National Museum of Nuclear Science & History. Doors open at 6:00 pm. The presentation begins at 6:30 pm and the event ends at 8:00.

BUY TICKETS

Admission is $12 per person. You must be 21 years old or older to attend. Admission will provide each guest with one beer ticket. Guests can purchase additional drinks. IDs are required. Please drink responsibly. Please email us with any questions.

ABOUT OUR SPEAKER

Jeff Brewer, PhD

Jeff Brewer is a Senior Scientist/Engineer at Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) and the Domain Chief Engineer for Nuclear Safety (NS). He also leads the Nuclear Safety Technical Expert Network. With over 20 years at Sandia, Jeff has focused on enhancing the safety of high-consequence technologies, particularly nuclear weapons and commercial nuclear power plants, with 15 years dedicated to the nuclear deterrent (ND) program. He was instrumental in developing and implementing the unique signal methodology for assuring unambiguous human intent in nuclear weapon employment and now mentors its continued development.

As Domain Chief Engineer for NS, Jeff ensures the adequacy of NS technical policy, requirements, guidance, training, and related technical decision-making across multiple ND programs at SNL. As Chief of the NS Technical Expert Network, he has united safety experts across SNL to deliver program-relevant safety solutions and drive continuous safety improvement in high-consequence systems. These roles have expanded his involvement in strategic NS activities with U.S. ND partners.

Jeff is also a dedicated educator, teaching numerous nuclear weapon safety courses at SNL and for external nuclear defense partners. He increasingly mentors others in NS teaching roles. His commitment to sharing safety insights extends internationally through conferences and his past role as Director of Education and Professional Development for the International System Safety Society (2015-2019).