LLNL Director Kim Budil Elected to National Academy of Engineering

Budil recognized for advancing nuclear deterrence through technical contributions and laboratory leadership.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) Director Kim Budil has been elected as a member of the National Academy of Engineering (NAE), one of the highest professional distinctions in the field. Budil was recognized for "advancing nuclear deterrence through technical contributions, laboratory leadership and advice to the government." She joins only 2,890 NAE members worldwide.

Why it matters

Election to the NAE is a prestigious honor that recognizes Budil's significant contributions to the field of engineering and her leadership at LLNL, a critical national security laboratory. Her induction highlights the important work being done at LLNL to enhance the nation's nuclear deterrence capabilities.

The details

As the 13th director of LLNL, Budil sets the strategic vision and oversees the execution of programs and operations to enhance national security. She leads the development and implementation of the Laboratory's scientific goals and serves as the highest-level liaison with government agencies and other organizations. Budil manages a workforce of 9,000 employees and a $3.25 billion annual budget. Along with the directors of Los Alamos and Sandia national laboratories, she provides the U.S. government with an annual technical assessment of the safety, security and effectiveness of the nuclear weapons stockpile.

  • Budil was elected to the NAE in 2026.

The players

Kim Budil

The 13th director of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL), where she sets the strategic vision and oversees the execution of programs and operations to enhance national security.

National Academy of Engineering (NAE)

One of the highest professional distinctions in the field of engineering, with only 2,890 members worldwide.

Tsu-Jae Liu

The president of the National Academy of Engineering.

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What they’re saying

“I am deeply honored to be recognized with election to the National Academy of Engineering. I have been fortunate to spend my career in the national laboratory system, and I am proud to represent an extraordinary institution that uses leading edge science and engineering to create solutions to critical national security needs. I am very proud to join this distinguished community.”

— Kim Budil, Director, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (Mirage News)

“Induction into the National Academy of Engineering is both a distinguished career milestone and a call to service. These accomplished engineers join a community dedicated to advancing the nation's well-being and promoting public understanding and appreciation of engineering.”

— Tsu-Jae Liu, President, National Academy of Engineering (Mirage News)

What’s next

Budil will be formally inducted into the National Academy of Engineering at the organization's annual meeting in October 2026.

The takeaway

Kim Budil's election to the prestigious National Academy of Engineering is a testament to her technical expertise, leadership, and contributions to national security through her work at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. Her induction highlights the critical role that national laboratories play in advancing science and engineering to address complex challenges facing the country.