Attend seminar featuring Idaho National Laboratory and advanced manufacturing capabilities, March 6
About
Anthony Nickens is the division director of Idaho National Laboratory’s materials, manufacturing and bioenergy science and technology division, which leads research in advanced critical materials recovery, bioenergy feedstock technologies, manufacturing, materials science, chemical analytics and mechanical characterization. He previously served as department manager of Idaho National Laboratory’s National Security solutions group within the defense systems division, where his team delivered technology solutions for government partners supporting national security efforts in materials, energetics and pyrotechnics, vulnerability assessment, rapid prototyping and modeling and simulation.
Before joining Idaho National Laboratory, Nickens was a vice president at Ceramatec, Inc., leading scientists, engineers and laboratory technicians in advanced energy research while directing business development initiatives and building strategic collaborations with Fortune 500 companies and government agencies. He also managed domestic and international agreements. His broader experience includes program management for energy technologies such as fuel cells, fuel reforming and advanced logistics systems at the Office of Naval Research, as well as management and engineering roles with Naval Sea Systems Command overseeing hull, mechanical and electrical systems for submarines and surface ships. His work included developing advanced air conditioning and refrigeration systems, environmentally friendly shipboard coatings and paints, next-generation firefighting systems, submarine environmental management systems and advanced protective coatings.
Nickens recently retired as a captain in the U.S. Navy Reserve after completing seven commanding officer tours, including a major command overseeing more than 1,500 sailors. He earned a Master of Arts in national security and strategic studies from the U.S. Naval War College, a Master of Science in chemical engineering from the University of Florida and a Master of Business Administration from the Florida Institute of Technology. He holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from North Carolina State University and is a graduate of the University of Virginia Darden School of Business Executive Education & Lifelong Learning program.
Abstract
Idaho National Laboratory serves as the nation’s lead nuclear energy research facility, advancing energy security, national security and critical infrastructure protection. The laboratory develops next-generation nuclear reactor concepts and fuel technologies, protects industrial control systems through advanced cybersecurity research and leads integrated energy systems initiatives that couple nuclear energy with hydrogen production, renewable sources and industrial processes to create resilient, clean energy solutions.
Beyond nuclear energy, Idaho National Laboratory maintains world-class capabilities in advanced materials and manufacturing to address complex industrial challenges. Its electric field-assisted sintering technologies enable rapid consolidation of difficult-to-sinter materials, improving performance while reducing processing time. Materials development programs focus on novel alloys and composites designed to withstand extreme temperatures, radiation and corrosive environments. Structural materials research advances the reliability and lifespan of components used in demanding applications.
The laboratory also integrates digital engineering into manufacturing processes through computational modeling, simulation and data analytics. These tools optimize production, reduce costs and accelerate the transition from concept to deployment, strengthening U.S. energy and industrial competitiveness.
Overview of Idaho National Laboratory and Advanced Manufacturing Capabilities seminar
Friday, March 6, 2026
11 a.m.–noon
Interdisciplinary Science and Technology Building 12 (ITSB12) room 215, Polytechnic campus [map]