Category: Press Releases

  • SIMCO seeks applications for Teacher STEM Mini-Grants in Eddy County and Lea County 

    SIMCO seeks applications for Teacher STEM Mini-Grants in Eddy County and Lea County 

    Carlsbad, NM., September 15, 2025 — Salado Isolation Mining Contractors (SIMCO) is now accepting applications for our STEM Education Mini-Grants. Teachers in K-12 schools in Eddy County and Lea County are eligible to submit applications for support of classroom science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) projects as part of its 2025 Education Outreach Community Commitment Plan. 

    SIMCO’s Mini-Grant program encourages, promotes and coordinates STEM education, along with a broader focus of incorporating a “hands on” approach in the classroom. Awards range from $1000 to $2000. 

    Teachers submitting applications should focus on STEM relevance. In addition to traditional STEM projects, another teacher in a related discipline might apply for a grant for students to explore the lives of scientists, mathematicians, etc., or for materials to develop problem-solving or other critical thinking skills. The online application, along with information about proposal and evaluation criteria, is available at: https://form.jotform.com/252304025197148 

    Grants are available on three levels: 

    • Single classroom: $1000 
    • Multiple classrooms: $1,500
    • Entire school: $2,000 

    SIMCO will accept applications online until 5 p.m. on September 29, 2025. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. Winners will be notified no later than October 8, 2025. For more information about the SIMCO STEM Education Mini-Grants Program please visit our education page at https://simco-llc.us/education-outreach/ or contact Dr. Joy James-Foster, Education Outreach Lead, at (575-234-7512 or Joy.James-Foster@wipp.doe.gov)

  • EPA Approves Replacement Panels at WIPP

    CARLSBAD, N.M., August 18, 2025 – The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) and Salado Isolation Mining Contractors (SIMCO) have received approval from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for the use of replacement waste disposal panels 11 and 12. This decision follows a thorough review and evaluation by the EPA, authorizing the disposal of defense-generated transuranic (TRU) waste in the replacement panels.

    The replacement panels are necessary due to the loss of available disposal space from not utilizing Panels 9 and 10. The decision to not use the two panels came after careful evaluation of ground conditions in those areas, prioritizing the safety of the workforce and the long-term integrity of the underground.

    The New Mexico Environment Department approved construction of panels 11 and 12 in 2023, with mining of Panel 11 beginning in December of that year. In addition, the DOE submitted a Replacement Panels Planned Change Request to the EPA, for approval of these replacement panels for the continued disposal of TRU waste.

    “These additional panels support WIPP’s mission toward disposal of the congressional volume mandate,” said Michael Gerle, Director of Environmental Regulatory Compliance at the DOE’s Carlsbad Field Office. “They are essential for ensuring WIPP can continue its critical role in supporting national security and environmental cleanup efforts.”

    Each disposal panel is composed of seven rooms, each room measuring about 300 feet long, 33 feet wide and 13 feet high. TRU waste containers are carefully stacked within these rooms, for permanent disposal. Once a room is filled, it is sealed off from the ventilation system and operations transition to the next adjacent room.

    “I cannot overstate how critical this approval is to the continued operation of the WIPP facility,” added Ken Harrawood, SIMCO program manager. “It reflects the strong collaboration between the WIPP team and the EPA, and I want to extend my sincere appreciation to everyone involved for their dedication and hard work.”

    Due to the natural tendency of salt to gradually close in overtime, new panels are mined on a just-in-time basis to maintain operational efficiency. Based on current projections, replacement Panel 11 is expected to be completed by mid-2027.

  • SIMCO Brings First Cal Ripken STEM Lab to New Mexico High School, Supporting Student Futures and Local Workforce Development

    SIMCO Brings First Cal Ripken STEM Lab to New Mexico High School, Supporting Student Futures and Local Workforce Development

    CARLSBAD, N.M. August 1, 2025 — Salado Isolation Mining Contractors (SIMCO) is advancing its commitment to local education through a $40,000 grant which sponsors a state-of-the-art Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation STEM Lab at Carlsbad Early College High School (CECHS) — making it the first high school in New Mexico and only the second in the nation to receive this prestigious educational opportunity.

    “We’re proud to invest in the next generation of engineers, scientists, and innovators right here in our community,” said Ken Harrawood, SIMCO President and Program Manager. “By supporting high-quality STEM programs, we’re helping prepare local students for high-skill careers throughout the Permian Basin and laying the groundwork for long-term community success. As the management and operations contractor for the Department of Energy’s Waste Isolation Pilot Plant, SIMCO sees firsthand how generational employment strengthens families and builds stronger communities.”

    The Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation STEM Lab will provide CECHS students with access to hands-on, project-based learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics — areas critical to both personal achievement and regional economic growth. With test scores already exceeding state and national averages, CECHS is poised to use the new lab to further enrich its rigorous academic programs.

    “SIMCO’s support of the Cal Ripken Foundation reflects our ongoing investment in local education and student success,” said Dr. Joy James Foster, SIMCO Education Outreach Lead. “We’re honored to partner with Carlsbad Early College High School — a standout institution whose goals perfectly align with the mission of the STEM Lab initiative.”

    CECHS Principal Stacy Verdin expressed enthusiasm for the lab’s potential. “We are incredibly honored to be selected for this opportunity,” Verdin said. “This lab will inspire curiosity, boost student engagement, and provide meaningful, real-world experiences in STEM. It’s a powerful tool for equipping our students with the knowledge and confidence to pursue bright futures.”

    Founded in 2001 by baseball legend Cal Ripken, Jr. and his brother Bill, the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation initially focused on youth development through sports and mentorship. The organization has since expanded to include national STEM education initiatives, creating over 740 STEM centers that now serve more than 314,000 students across the U.S.

    In 2024 alone, the Foundation supported over 1.4 million underserved youth through its youth mentoring programs, STEM labs, and development parks — including 23 facilities dedicated to children with special needs. These efforts are made possible by more than 35,000 trainedmentors, coaches, educators, and volunteers.

    By partnering with the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation, SIMCO is helping expand access to cutting-edge STEM resources and ensuring Carlsbad students are prepared for careers in tomorrow’s workforce — while also strengthening the community through educational equity and opportunity.

  • SIMCO supports Inspired by Science’s STEM education efforts

    SIMCO supports Inspired by Science’s STEM education efforts

    SIMCO recently presented a $12,000 check to Inspired by Science as part of its community commitment to support STEM education at the elementary school level.

    Inspired by Science was established in 2013 by Deena and Mike Antiporda with their three young sons, and it has thrived with the help of many dedicated volunteers who have helped make the organization a success. Its purpose is to promote STEM education at the elementary school level through hands-on science experiences that are both educational and fun in hopes of inspiring students to pursue education and careers in STEM-related fields.

    “SIMCO is proud to be partnering with Inspired by Science and its founder and CEO, Deena Antiporda, to bring STEM to life in tangible ways,” said SIMCO Program Manager Ken Harrawood.

  • Teach Plus New Mexico’s first Education & Economic Mobility Summit in Hobbs, NM

    SIMCO Education STEM Outreach lead, Dr. Joy James-Foster, recently joined educators, business leaders, policymakers and community advocates as they shared expertise, aligned resources and brainstormed ideas to create sustainable pathways to prosperity for all New Mexico students at the Teach Plus New Mexico’s first Education & Economic Mobility Summit in Hobbs, NM.

    The session included data-driven overview of high-need careers from the NM Department of Workforce Solutions:

    • A student-led panel exploring youth perspectives and aspirations
    • Sector-specific panels featuring educational and industry partners
    • Cross-sector working groups that identify shared priorities, needs, and actionable steps

  • SIMCO seeks grant submittals from Eddy and Lea counties’ non-profits

    CARLSBAD, NEW MEXICO — Salado Isolation Mining Contractors, LLC (SIMCO) announced today the company is now accepting grant proposals from non-profit agencies throughout Eddy and Lea Counties for its 2025 Employee Investment Advisory Committee program. The program is now in its third year.

    In 2024, the program awarded $75,000 in grants to nonprofit organizations to enrich the lives of people in Southeast New Mexico.

    The program’s 2025 funding priorities are:

    • Food Security
    • Literacy
    • Health & Human Services
    • STEM Education

    The online application is available at https://simco-llc.us/investment-advisory-committee/. Applications can be mailed, or hand delivered, and are due Friday, July 11, 2025, by 5:00 p.m. mountain time.

    For questions, please contact Ekta Bhakta, SIMCO Community Relations & Charitable Giving at 832.689.1049 or ekta.bhakta@wipp.ws.

    About the SIMCO Employee Investment Advisory Committee

    The Employee Investment Advisory Grant Fund mission is to allocate company-funded grants, where the need is greatest, using the collective skills and knowledge of SIMCO’s employees to make a positive impact in the communities where they live and work.

    The Employee Investment Advisory Committee is representative of SIMCO’s diverse workforce and comprised of selected non-managerial employees who have been recognized for their leadership qualities by both their managers and peers. This innovative approach gives SIMCO’s employees direct influence where a portion of the company’s charitable contributions are made, extending funding across a wider array of regional nonprofit organizations.

    About SIMCO

    SIMCO is the management and operations contractor for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP). SIMCO’s member is Bechtel National Inc., and our WIPP team includes Los Alamos Technical Associates as a New Mexico-based teaming subcontractor. As a major employer, SIMCO understands the importance of investing in the region’s near- and long-term success by being a positive, proactive member of the community; participating in socioeconomic development; and making investments in social and philanthropic programs for the betterment of the residents of Southeastern New Mexico.

  • SIMCO awards $21,000 in local scholarships to high school seniors

    SIMCO awards $21,000 in local scholarships to high school seniors

    CARLSBAD, N.M., May 14, 2025

    Salado Isolation Mining Contractors (SIMCO) demonstrated its commitment to education with the recent award of $21,000 in scholarships to 21 high school seniors in Eddy and Lea counties. “SIMCO is committed to investing in our students’ post-secondary education. A college education can have a lasting impact on their lives and we’re proud to play a small part in that journey. SIMCO scholarships are just one way we’re supporting our students and investing in their futures,” said SIMCO Education Outreach Lead, Dr. Joy James-Foster.

    Students from Artesia, Carlsbad, Hobbs, and Loving received scholarships. Recipients include:

    Carlsbad High School
    Evan Antiporda, Chistina Pia Bicol, Sean Casey, Rubye Chappa, Hailey Digby, Abbey Dugan, Jesse Fuentes, Kalion Fuentes, Jorge Gonzalez, Aubrey Hernandez, Alyssa Munoz, Emmie Navarette, Taylor Onsurez, Kason Perez, Alexander Sanchez and Gabby Sanchez Artesia High School Morgan Kay Love

    Hobbs High School
    Brock Beaty, Mc Kenzie Porter and Trinity Vasquez

    Loving High School
    Joslynn Abernathy

    SIMCO also provided funding for the Martin Luther King Scholarship Fund, the Carlsbad Class Act Scholarship Fund, the Hobbs Bash Graduation Night Fund and the Falcon Fest Scholarship Fund.

    To be considered for a SIMCO scholarship, students must plan to attend an accredited college or university.

    Photographs of scholarship award recipients are available upon request.

    SIMCO is the management and operations contractor for the U.S. Department of Energy’s Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) near Carlsbad. WIPP, the nation’s only permanent geologic repository for defense transuranic nuclear waste, began disposal operations in 1999.
  • WIPP Announces Winners of Inaugural Regional Science Bowl

    WIPP Announces Winners of Inaugural Regional Science Bowl

    CARLSBAD, N.M., March 1, 2025 – After hours of intense academic competition on Saturday, March 1, student teams proved their knowledge at the second annual Southeastern New Mexico Regional Science Bowl hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP).

    The team from the New Mexico Military Institute was crowned the champion of this year’s competition and will represent the SE New Mexico region at the National Science Bowl in Washington D.C. on April 25, 2025.

    Carlsbad hosted the regional competition at Southeast New Mexico College, where 10 teams from Carlsbad Early College, New Mexico Military Institute, Carlsbad and Hobbs high schools participated, with the winner moving on to compete nationally.

    Launched in 1991, the National Science Bowl® is a competitive science education and academic event including teams of students who compete in a fast-paced verbal forum to solve technical problems and answer questions in all branches of science and math. Each team is composed of four students, one alternate student and a coach.

    Salado Isolation Mining Contractors, LLC (SIMCO), WIPP’s management and operations contractor, was the regional event’s primary sponsor and organizer. SIMCO supports the mission of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Waste Isolation Pilot Plant and is a member of Bechtel National Inc.

  • $1000 Scholarships Available for Eddy and Lea County Graduating Seniors

    CARLSBAD, NM – Beginning February 13, 2025, until March 13, 2025, 5 p.m. – Salado Isolation Mining

    Contractors LLC (SIMCO) is offering college scholarships for Eddy and Lea County graduating seniors.

    A limited number of one-time $1,000 scholarships are available to qualified 2025 graduating seniors selected from Carlsbad, Hobbs and Loving schools. Completed scholarship applications must be receive by Thursday, March 13, 2025.

    The online application, along with information about proposal and evaluation criteria, is available at https://form.jotform.com/250414973636158 or apply here.

    SIMCO will accept applications online from February 13, 2025, until 5 p.m. on March 13, 2025.

    Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. Winners will be notified no later than March 25, 2025.

    For more information about the SIMCO Education Scholarships Program, contact Dr. Joy James-Foster, SIMCO Communications, at (575) 234-7512 or joy.james-foster@wipp.doe.gov

  • WIPP 2024 Year In Review

    CARLSBAD, N.M.  ̶ The U.S. Department of Energy’s Waste Isolation Pilot Plant had a safe and productive 2024. Watch the year-end accomplishments video.