In this episode of Micro Journeys, host Daniel Marrujo sits down with Ken LaBel, one of the most respected figures in the world of radiation effects for space and defense electronics. With a decades-long career that spans NASA, missile defense, and strategic radiation-hardened electronics, Ken shares the moments that defined his professional path—from helping prove the Big Bang Theory to shaping policies on advanced packaging and testing limitations for modern microelectronics.
The conversation dives into the evolution of radiation engineering from an afterthought to a core systems discipline. Ken explains how critical collaboration, mentorship, and rigorous testing are in safeguarding both space-based scientific missions and high-reliability defense systems. He also unpacks how mission needs—whether scientific exploration or survivability in nuclear environments—demand distinct approaches to risk, reliability, and radiation resilience.
Ultimately, Ken’s journey exemplifies how deep expertise, humility, and a collaborative mindset can influence the trajectory of entire sectors. His legacy spans technical leadership, cross-agency integration, and community-building—all while keeping things refreshingly human (yes, there’s a story about Belgian beer).