Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) Director Kim Budil has been selected by Fast Company as one of the Most Creative People in Business for 2023. The annual list, in its 15th year, recognizes individuals making an impact in society via daring achievements in their chosen fields, from tech to design to healthcare. Budil was selected for leading the team that achieved nuclear fusion ignition.
“At LLNL, more than 8,300 people are dedicated to harnessing leading-edge science and technology to address some of the most significant challenges in national security and global stability facing our nation and the world. This work requires exceptional creativity and real technical innovation – “Big Ideas” – to enable meaningful impact,” Budil said. “It is an honor to be recognized alongside other leaders who strive to make a difference.”
Fast Company selects individuals who used their innovative thinking to make a meaningful impact on the world, highlighting a diverse group of founders, executives, designers, engineers, activists, entertainers and others who are breaking important ground in their industries and represent the future of business.
Budil is the 13th director of LLNL, where she leads a workforce of approximately 8,300 employees and manages an annual operating budget of $3 billion. As director, she sets the strategic vision for the Laboratory and is responsible for successful execution of programs and operations to advance science and technology for national security and to maintain an outstanding and diverse workforce.
She leads the development and implementation of the Laboratory’s scientific vision, goals and objectives, and engages with the senior leadership of Department of Energy, National Nuclear Security Administration, and other federal agencies, as well as senior leaders across government, academia and the private sector.
“For years before I began working here, I always looked forward to the Most Creative People list as a sneak peek at the individuals who are about to change the world,” said Brendan Vaughan, Fast Company’s editor-in-chief. “These dozens of human stories showcase how creativity is one of the most underrated ways to unlock potential and transform business.”
You can see the complete list here.
