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Nuclear Fundamentals Orientation (NFO)

NFO is a three-module curriculum that provides a comprehensive introduction to the LANL Weapons programs, the U.S. Nuclear Security Enterprise, and nuclear weapons design, engineering, and production fundamentals. Each module spans three half-days (Tuesday through Thursday, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.) and is offered quarterly.

Curriculum Overview

Module 1 (Unclassified/Online)

Learn about LANL's history, gain a broad overview of the Nuclear Security Enterprise, and explore the LANL Weapons Programs.

Module 2 (Unclassified/Online)

Explore essential topics related to nuclear weapons science, the U.S. nuclear stockpile, and LANL’s critical role in supporting national security.

Module 3 (Classified/Onsite)

Take a deeper, classified dive into the topics covered in Module 1 and 2. Explore the roles of each Associated Laboratory Directorate in the LANL Weapons Programs, non-nuclear and nuclear tests, modern advances in weapons stewardship, classification issues, historical U.S. stockpile weapons, and stockpile modernization, through face-to-face interactions with subject matter experts. 

NFO 2026 Schedule

 Session 1Session 2Session 3Session 4
Module 1Jan. 27–29April 14–16July 14–16Oct. 13–15
Module 2Feb. 24–26May 12–14Aug. 18–20Nov. 17–19
Module 3March 17–19June 16–18Sept. 15–17Dec. 8–10

Attend NFO

LANL participants: Please register through UTrain. 

Non-LANL participants: Email nfo@lanl.gov at least 6 weeks in advance with the following information:

  • Your Name
  • Email Address
  • Your preferred module dates based on the NFO schedule (e.g., Module 1: January 2026).

Once your request has been reviewed, the NFO team will send you an Outlook calendar invitation with detailed information.

Virtual Attendance: Modules 1 and 2 are conducted virtually and may be attended by anyone in the Nuclear Security Enterprise.

Classified Module 3: This module is only offered onsite in Los Alamos, NM and is available exclusively to U.S. citizens with a DOE Q Clearance or equivalent. We strongly encourage you to submit your request as early as possible to avoid delays. 

The NFO Team will coordinate with non-LANL participants regarding classified visits and badging requirements. Travel arrangements are the responsibility of each participant.

We recommend completing the modules in sequential order, but you are welcome to sign up for Modules 1 and 2 only.

To learn more about the NFO program, please read the NFO Brochure. For additional questions, or to explore collaboration opportunities or establish an NFO-style onboarding orientation for your organization, reach out to us at nfo@lanl.gov.