Congratulating Stephen Johnson

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Mr. SIMPSON. Madam Speaker, today I wish to congratulate Dr. Stephen G. Johnson, a researcher at Idaho National Laboratory (INL). At its recent annual meeting in Washington, D.C., the American Nuclear Society (ANS) honored Dr.Johnson as a Fellow, which is the highest member status presented to an individual. Dr. Johnson was recognized for his outstanding accomplishments in nuclear science and technology, specifically highlighting his work in rebuilding the national radioisotope power system program for NASA's deep space exploration.

Dr. Johnson holds a bachelor's degree with a double major in mathematics and chemistry from Lake Superior State University of Michigan and a Ph.D. in physical chemistry from Iowa State University. He currently serves as the director of the Space Nuclear Power and Isotope Technologies Division at INL's Materials and Fuels Complex.

During his tenure at INL, Dr. Johnson has successfully reestablished the Radioisotope Power Systems program, initiated the Technical Integration Office for Radioisotope Power Systems, and most recently named the National Technical Director, for the Department of Energy's (DOE) national Space Nuclear Power program. Steve and his staff focus on cross-cutting initiatives, mission planning scenarios for nuclear power systems for DOE customers, such as NASA, and providing resources for various other needs for DOE's Space Nuclear Power department.

For the last few years, Steve has been a regular visitor to Capitol Hill, presenting an overview of the Department of Energy space power work for NASA at lunches hosted by the Foundation For Nuclear Studies. This summer, my staff and I had the pleasure of visiting Dr. Johnson in his facility where they were assembling the radioisotope thermoelectric generator that will power the Mars 2020 Rover.

It is a great privilege to congratulate Dr. Stephen G. Johnson on receiving this prestigious recognition, and I am grateful for his exceptional work in the field of nuclear science and technology. His accomplishments are a reminder of the many skilled researchers and scientists currently working and living in Idaho. Congratulations to Steve on his accomplishments and I thank him for all of his hard work.

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