Events

Evolution of NEST

What does it take to prepare for the nation’s most challenging nuclear and radiological emergencies?

Discover the answer with the Nuclear Emergency Support Team (NEST), the National Nuclear Security Administration’s elite emergency response unit composed of leading scientists and technical experts.

Join Michael Peters, NEST Director and Deputy Director for the Office of Nuclear Incident Response, as he takes audiences on a journey through the history of nuclear response in the United States. Explore the pivotal moments that shaped NEST, learn how the organization has evolved to stay ahead of emerging threats, and gain insight into the innovative approaches that continue to strengthen national security today.

Whether you're interested in science, history, technology, or emergency response, this presentation offers a unique perspective on one of the nation's most important missions.

Event Details

• Friday, September 4, 2026 | Doors Open at 5:30 pm | Presentation at 6:00 pm
• Location: National Museum of Nuclear Science & History
• Admission: $12 per person
• Requirement: Must be 21+ to attend. An adult must accompany younger guests.

MEET OUR SPEAKER

Michael Peters

NEST Director, Deputy Director for the Office of Nuclear Incident Response, Office of Counterterrorism and Counterproliferation, National Nuclear Security Administration, Department of Energy

Michael Peters currently serves as the NEST Director, Deputy Director of the Office of Nuclear Incident Response, Counterterrorism and Counterproliferation, National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), U.S. Department of Energy (DOE). In this capacity, he oversees strategic alliances with component leaders across DOE/NNSA and key interagency partners. He assists in assuring the staffing, training, equipping, and exercising of the Department’s emergency response assets in the areas of countering weapons of mass destruction, nuclear weapon accident/incident response, nuclear radiological public health and safety, and helps to insure the readiness of the Nuclear Emergency Support Team (NEST).

Mr. Peters is a retired Master Chief Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician who served in the United States Navy from 1992 to 2015.