Atomic museum benefits from L&A donation

December 9, 2025, 3:00PMANS Nuclear Cafe
Photo: National Atomic Testing Museum

Longenecker & Associates has announced a $500,000 pledge from John and Bonnie Longenecker to the National Atomic Testing Museum in Las Vegas, Nev. The contribution will strengthen the museum’s missions to inform the public about America’s national security legacy and current programs and to inspire students, educators, and young professionals pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

The immediate grant is for $250,000, with the remainder to be contributed in future years. The donation was celebrated during a December 4 event recognizing leaders and organizations committed to advancing nuclear literacy and workforce development.

“Bonnie and I have dedicated our careers to strengthening America’s nuclear capabilities and fostering the talent needed to sustain them,” said L&A CEO John Longenecker. “We’re proud to support the Atomic Museum’s work to honor those who shaped our nuclear history and to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, technicians, and policy leaders who will guide our security and prosperity in the decades ahead.”

Education: The National Atomic Testing Museum informs visitors about the history of U.S. nuclear defense testing and other national security programs at what is now the Nevada National Security Site and explores how those programs shaped modern deterrence, global security, and scientific innovation. The donation will support the museum’s educational initiatives, operational needs, and its annual “Giving Tuesdays” campaign.

“We’re deeply grateful to John and Bonnie for their generous support,” said Scott Wade, vice chair of the museum’s board of trustees. “This contribution strengthens our ability to help the public understand the Cold War history that continues to influence today’s discussions about nuclear security, environmental stewardship, and scientific discovery. Our goal is to inspire future innovators and ensure the workforce needed to support DOE missions remains strong.”

Contributions: According to L&A, the company regularly invests in STEM education and workforce development programs in communities near Department of Energy sites. These efforts include scholarships for local colleges and universities; partnerships with technical schools; support for historical and scientific organizations; and initiatives that connect students with career pathways in national security, environmental cleanup, nuclear energy, and advanced science.

“We strongly believe that America’s energy, scientific and national security future depends on attracting and cultivating the next generation of skilled workers and leaders,” Longenecker said. “The Atomic Museum plays an important role in telling the story of our past and recognizing its leaders so that new generations can imagine—and help build—what comes next.”

About: Founded in 1989, L&A is a woman-owned small business that supports the DOE and the National Nuclear Security Administration throughout the nuclear security and cleanup enterprise to improve mission performance, deliver capital asset projects on schedule and budget, implement effective governance approaches, and develop targeted business strategies for both large and small businesses.


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