LM Support Partner Radiological Control Manager Mike McDonald has announced his retirement.
October 5, 2026
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For many, the terms “radiation” and “radioactive material” evoke feelings of fear and unease. After spending his decades-long career within the Department of Energy (DOE) complex demystifying that public unease through education and a deeper understanding, LM Support Partner Radiological Control Manager Mike McDonald has announced his retirement.
McDonald’s professional journey in nuclear safety began in 1979, when he joined the U.S. Navy. After completing his military service, McDonald pursued higher education in radiation health physics and radiation protection while working full-time. His post-Navy career took him across the country, including Colorado, where he worked at a high-temperature, gas-cooled nuclear reactor power plant and managed complex environmental remediation projects. McDonald joined DOE Office of Legacy Management (LM) in 2017 and tirelessly focused on radiological control safety, health, and education until his last day at the organization.
An organization within the Safety and Health department, the RadCon group supports LM’s mission when work involves radiological materials or hazards by controlling and preventing radioactive material contamination, making sure radiological work is done safely, and implementing controls to reduce and prevent radioactive contamination from spreading.
As the LMSP Radiological Control Manager within the Safety and Health (S&H) department, McDonald led a unique, cross-trained team. LMSP radiological control technicians (RCTs) wear multiple hats depending on project needs and McDonald was part of the team behind keeping things organized and efficient.
LM’s mission is to “safeguard human health, environments, and public properties.” Every time an employee grabs safety and RadCon equipment and heads out the door to support a project or person, they are impacting LM’s mission in a positive and important way.
“Mike has served as a critical bridge builder for LM over the years as he is highly skilled at communicating expert level technical information in an understandable and relatable way from anyone to operational staff to the general public and he always manages to have fun while doing it!” said LM Supervisory Physical Scientist Nicole Olin. “His public service to the department is a significant achievement and we are so thankful for his time with LMSP.”
Throughout McDonald’s career, he has shared this knowledge and mentorship at DOE sites across the country. Along the way, he has earned a variety of professional credentials, giving him the tools he needs to educate both RCTs and the public.
“I love when the proverbial light bulb comes on in a person’s head,” Mike said. “I’ve always been involved with teaching during my career. I get a lot of enjoyment working with such a talented group of RCTs and knowing that the RadCon organization is making a difference.”
As McDonald steps into retirement, his legacy of leadership, expertise, and RadCon enthusiasm has left an impact, ensuring human health and the environment remain in excellent, knowledgeable hands for years to come.