Sandians and partners gathered at the Livermore site on Aug. 20 to break ground on a facility designed to strengthen Sandia’s ability to solve the most challenging national security problems.
“We gather not only to celebrate the start of a new building but also to recognize the incredible teamwork, dedication and vision that has brought this project to life,” strategic planner Stephen Williams said. “It’s truly been a team effort with strong leadership supporting the process. This is a testament to the collaborative spirit here at Sandia and strong partnerships we have with our contractors, stakeholders and community.”
Funded by the NNSA Office of Infrastructure, this $26.5M investment will enhance support for current and future nuclear deterrence programs.
“It’s truly a great accomplishment to take this step,” said Phil Duarte, representing the NNSA Sandia Field Office. “We’re highly focused on the deterrence mission, and this is a step toward that mission.”
The 8,000-square-foot Secure Weapons Integration Center will include a 3,700-square-foot high-bay lab to increase capabilities in hardware development, assembly and testing. Designed around mission‑critical secure lab functions, the center’s optimized footprint reflects the specialized structural, security and high‑bay requirements that distinguish it from typical commercial or office construction.
“We’re being agile, preparing for the future and building for the next generation,” said Devon Powers, manager of strategic site planning for Sandia California.
The SWIC facility will support Sandia’s core nuclear deterrence mission by providing adequate space for assembly and large-scale test builds with crane support, component electrical testing and bonded storage.
“Investments in our infrastructure support the demand for the important work we do for national security,” Operations Director Trish Benguerel said. “That’s really humbling. It’s not just a building — it’s a way for us to do work for the nation.”
Sandia anticipates the high-security center to be ready to be occupied in 2029.
“SWIC is the right facility for the right mission at the right time,” strategic planner Rachael Gutierrez-Stabler said. “This is a prime example of Facilities Strategic Planning teaming successfully with our mission partners.”
Sandia departments have worked in harmony to guarantee the facility is compliant with DOE orders as well as California Building Codes while also ensuring key design elements demonstrate innovation and durability. The building will be more efficient than existing campus buildings and feature advanced mechanical and electrical systems.
“It’s incredibly gratifying to know this building will provide support the important missions we undertake for years to come,” said Bobby Smith, facilities engineering project manager. “Seeing this project come to life and knowing the positive impact it will have makes the effort all the more rewarding. I appreciate the opportunity to be part of something that will benefit Sandia for many years.”