Pantex Blog
Hansen receives distinguished alumni award from alma mater
Lance Hansen is honored on stage during the Purdue Distinguished Alumni Awards.
Engineering Technical Operations Senior Director Lance Hansen has been honored with the 2025 Civil Engineering Alumni Achievement Award from the Lyles School of Civil and Construction Engineering at Purdue University.
Hansen is an accomplished senior leader with a distinguished career spanning over four decades in both civilian and military roles. He was selected in recognition of his outstanding career achievements and exceptional contributions to the profession.
“This is quite an honor, and a humbling one at that,” Hansen said. “I was a graduate student at Purdue in the early years of this award, and sometimes wondered how folks made their way through the profession to such recognition. I learned later there are many, many ways to have impact. My journey is just another one of those ways. I am happy to be considered a worthy addition to this cohort of Purdue professionals.”
Hansen graduated from Purdue with his Master of Science and Engineering in 1996 and his Doctorate of Philosophy in Environmental Engineering in 2002. Purdue provided Hansen the opportunity to focus on STEM and tie in important lessons in the humanities from his undergraduate at the United States Military Academy, which he attributes to molding his leadership style.
Hansen was presented the award during a ceremony at the university in West Lafayette, Indiana in April. He shared wisdom gleaned from his vast experience with current Purdue students, detailing his career story and offering guidance as they embark on their own engineering journeys.
“Engineering is a discipline that solves problems and creates foundations,” Hansen said. “There are a lot of problems to be solved and future foundations to establish. Some are physical, some are fiscal, some are philosophical, some are truly existential. The principles of engineering are not unlike the principles of logic or the principles of physics. Learn to leverage technical expertise with existential expertise of the humanities and physics. This is where originality and true discovery occurs. This is where the greatest impact on others will then manifest.”
Hansen joined the Pantex Engineering team in September 2024. As the Senior Director of Engineering Technical Operation, he leads a team focused on workforce assurance initiatives, spearheads business interface projects to improve internal communication within the division, and manages acquisition processes to increase operational efficiency.
This award showcases Pantex’s commitment to recruit and retain innovative leaders such as Hansen to the Nuclear Security Enterprise. Hansen says he is proud of the contributions he has made thus far, and encourages others to look to the future.
“Always keep learning and challenging yourself to think differently,” Hansen said. “Do what you love to do—be kind and thoughtful with others who love to do other things. They can be your greatest colleagues and advocates in the future.”
Paying tribute to fallen firefighters
The Honor Guard performs at the B61 Last Production Unit Ceremony
Firefighter Memorial Day is observed on the first Sunday in May as a tribute to those who died in the line of duty. There were 62 firefighter deaths nationwide in 2024 according to the U.S. Fire Administration. While we dedicate that day to remembering those who bravely served, members of the Pantex Honor Guard show support for fallen first responders throughout the year by participating in funerals, memorials, and other events.
“Unfortunately, firefighting can be a deadly profession,” Assistant Fire Chief and Honor Guard member Bob Napp said. “We have participated in at least 12 funerals or memorial services for line of duty deaths or retired firefighters who have passed away. Most recently for the Perryton assistant chief and the Fritch fire chief.”
Fire service is rooted in duty, honor, and pride. The Honor Guard exemplifies these characteristics. Honor Guard members are responsible for executing precise movements during ceremonies, symbolizing the discipline and commitment likened to military service.
“It takes a lot of extra time and dedication to train,” Battalion Chief and Honor Guard Member Jeremy Baker said. “Our members represent the department at funerals voluntarily. It is an honor, not an obligation.”
The Pantex Honor Guard participates in various events including Veterans Day, Armed Forces Day, Independence Day, September 11 Memorial tribute, openings of facilities, and completion of program celebrations. Ceremonies often include the presentation of colors, where flag bearers present or retire a flag. Events are diverse and signify different things to each member.
“Every one of the funerals we have done is meaningful,” Napp said. “Members of our Honor Guard were present at the memorial service for the 11 firefighters killed in the explosion in West, Texas. We attended the funeral for the four Houston firefighters killed in a roof collapse. We did the funeral for the fire chief in Memphis, Texas.”
Performing at important ceremonies can be stressful yet fulfilling because of the desire to make everything perfect for the family of those being honored.
“We have so much planning and preparation that has to be done to ensure everything is exactly right,” Baker said. “Initially, depending upon the type of event, the feelings range from sadness to a great sense of pride.”
The Pantex Honor Guard was established in 2011 and currently has 14 dedicated members. Their very first performance honored a founding member of the guard who died in a weather-related crash outside of work.
“I’ve been a member of the Honor Guard since its inception,” Battalion Chief and Honor Guard member Anthony Dompe said. “Our first event was the funeral for the firefighter responsible for starting our Honor Guard, Jody Baker. That will always be a meaningful event to me. Our Honor Guard has had the honor of laying two of our own to rest as well as several firefighters in the panhandle. For me it is the most important thing we do.”
Honor Guard members encourage Pantexans to take time today to pause and remember fallen firefighters who served our communities through fire prevention, community service, and emergency response.
Pantex Proud: Josh Ragon
Thousands of dedicated Pantex citizens like Josh Ragon work every day to support the Pantex mission. Take three minutes to learn about who he is, what he does, and why he is proud to be a Pantexan.
Most Pantexans have received the infamous white paper requesting their presence at Occupational Health Services for drug and alcohol test screening. Although some individuals feel like they’ve been selected as tribute, the fact is all Pantexans are subject to these required, random tests — managers, custodians, SPOs, and everyone else. While this system works much like a lottery, it must be maintained and organized.
Enter Josh Ragon, drug and alcohol program coordinator — the man behind the medical curtain. He manages the drug and alcohol random pool, notifies for positive breath alcohol tests and drug screens, and makes decisions regarding vehicular incidents. It’s a role in which Ragon is proud to serve.
“I help keep the site and our fellow Pantexans safe by making sure we are all fit for duty,” Ragon said. “Don’t risk your life, the lives of your coworkers, the community, or the mission because of a lack of self-control. If you need support, just ask.”
At one point in his life, Ragon wasn’t involved in the medical field; real estate was his game. But instead of working to become the star of his own HGTV show, he headed to Pantex thanks to the encouragement of a Pantexan cousin of his. Ragon started at Access Control then moved to Medical. While his position – and the plant itself – may have changed during his six years here, one thing constantly surprises him.
“Just how diverse this workforce is,” Ragon said. “There are so many different positions, jobs, and people of various backgrounds and experiences. The culture is extremely friendly and inviting. Pantex really is its own little city.”
Pantex, the bustling nuclear oasis of the Texas Panhandle, is home to more than 4,600 employees. More than likely, each lovely Pantexan’s badge picture has popped on Ragon’s computer screen for a routine test. However, if he ever has the privilege to meet a Pantexan face-to-face, he’s quick to offer advice to new employees or those just trying to make it through the day.
“Follow the rules,” Ragon stated. “Rules are there for a reason. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for help. That includes asking me. I’m here to do what I can to help you figure it out.”
What’s your top bucket list item and why?
I want to travel. I’d love to go places, see new things, and explore, especially any place with a beach. Fiji is on that list for sure.
Why is it important we hold ourselves accountable in our daily tasks?
If you don’t hold yourself accountable, nobody else will do it for you. You have to take charge. Be honest and own up. Do what’s required to fix the issue, no matter the consequences. Putting off ownership makes it harder on yourself, and in some way, it’ll catch up to you.
How do our established procedures, administrative controls, rules, etc. help us in being accountable to PXD, Pantex, and our peers?
Without procedures, anybody could be doing whatever they want. Procedures are there to maintain a safe work environment. If we can can’t do something safely, then we shouldn’t do it.
Provide an example of lessons you’ve learned through overcoming a work-related challenge?
Starting at Pantex was overwhelming. Each position I’ve taken was a learning experience. The jobs were a trial by fire, so I learned the roles by asking questions and trying. It is better to ask than be wrong, but you also have to do the job to learn it.
Pantex’s star-spangled stallion sports a fresh look
Across Amarillo, Canyon, and surrounding communities, about 100 likenesses of the American Quarter Horse dot the plains. Yet, these horses are unlike their living, breathing equine counterparts.
Collectively, the horses comprise “Hoofprints of the American Quarter Horse,” an art display created through a partnership between Center City of Amarillo and the American Quarter Horse Association. For more than a decade, one such horse has stood outside Building 16-12 welcoming visitors and employees.
Astute Pantexans may have noticed “Freedom,” the name given to the Pantex horse, has been missing since late October.
“Over time, the sun faded the beautiful artistic work of the U.S. flag and wind turbines displayed on the horse,” remarked Mission Assurance Officer Colby Yeary. “Just as our aging infrastructure is being recapitalized over time, the horse needed a refresh as well.”
The weather-worn horse was in desperate need of repair. Local artist Gary Ward, a former Canyon art teacher, came highly recommended. Ward, as it turns out, is responsible for the creation and restoration of many of the Hoofprints displays.
“I taught art and computer graphics in Canyon for 25 years,” he explained. “I’ve done a lot of [the horses] — no idea how many, really. I’ve been doing them ever since they started, probably half of them or better. I’ve either done the originals or, like with yours, I’ve been the one repainting them.”
Ward sanded, primed, then repainted Freedom with both automotive and spray paints, adding printed vinyl decals for logos or intricate details — things like the Pantex logo and numerous stars. Finally, the finished product was covered with a durable automotive clear coat.
Yeary said Freedom’s journey reminds him of the cooperation, camaraderie, and national pride exhibited by Pantexans every day.
“For me, it is a symbolic representation of our community, along with the patriotism we embrace as Pantexans,” he said. “As visitors, new employees, and existing employees enter and exit 16-12, seeing this horse can create a lasting impression of our site and what Freedom symbolizes to them.”
People of Pantex: Trent Jones
People of Pantex is a series that highlights what makes Pantexans unique when they are not at our plant and how those activities help them contribute to the mission.
Production Manager Trent Jones takes pride in being a third-generation Pantexan. You may know him, or have seen him around giving a facilities tour, presenting on a new production milestone, or chatting with coworkers in the hallway.
Or selling your grandmother’s Buick.
Jones may have followed in his family’s footsteps out to Pantex, but he was the first to become an auctioneer.
“I had a good friend from church that has an auction company in town, and he influenced me to go to auction school,” Jones said. “Auctions are a thrilling experience, and I’ve always wanted to learn the trade.”
Jones is a licensed auctioneer through the state of Texas, and as such, he has a fiduciary duty to the seller. In a nutshell, he does his best to bring market value to the product being sold, be it a decade-spanning coin collection, ragged patio furniture, or an antique Mustang convertible. Yes, he’s really auctioned off all of those things, and truckloads more...including the trucks.
To do all of this, however, Jones made like Rodney Dangerfield and went back to school.
“I had to memorize numbered drills and tongue twisters before I actually went to auctioneering school,” Jones said. “When I got there, I went through 80 hours of classroom instruction and did some live auctioneering. Additionally, every year I have to complete six hours of continuing education to keep my license.”
Along with schooling, auctioneering students must learn how to perform one trademark characteristic: bid talking. Bid talking is the rhythmic repetition of numbers and filler words, or simply put, the fast-paced, energetic talk we associate with auctioneers. Jones strives to improve, even if it means selling a gently used set of vintage telephone poles as he drives by them.
“It’s just consistent practice every day,” Jones said. “But running your mouth and bid calling is the easy part. The hard part is getting ready for an auction.”
Jones has traveled the Texas Panhandle and down south to Dallas and Waco to sell all types of goods for all types of people. Depending on the venue, he may be in a suit and tie under the glow of a chandelier or in Wranglers and a ballcap kicking up dirt in the country.
With any great performance, a strong warm-up routine is crucial. For Jones, he enjoys reciting tongue twisters before going live. “Betty Botter” with her bitter butter and better batter is always reliable. Jones is familiar with taking center stage, yet he still feels the winged metaphorical cocktail of nervousness and fear in his stomach.
“I’ve worked some auctions before and you start off auctioneering and nobody’s raising their hand,” Jones said. “You’re thinking ‘oh my God, this is going to be a bloodbath,’ but once you get the rhythm going, get the butterflies gone, and excite the crowd, it’s smooth sailing.”
Auctioneering and Jones’ work role share two major similarities. First, public speaking since he gives tours and presentations at Pantex.
The second?
“Teamwork,” Jones said. “In every auction, there’s people that you’re counting on. The clerk is the one taking all your numbers down. A lot of times I don’t remember what I said and I rely on them to repeat it back. You also have a ring man and other auctioneers that you work with. Again, it’s just teamwork. Same thing at Pantex.”
The longer Jones has stayed at Pantex, the more he has realized how truly blessed he is to be part of an enriching work environment and spirited dynamic. What has kept him auctioneering, however, appeals to his adventurous side.
“The auction business is exciting and challenging,” said Jones. “It’s also an adrenaline rush and I need that from time to time. I believe in continual education and always learning something new. Auctioneering is just one of the ways I get to do all of that.”