RUSTON, La. — Louisiana Tech University graduate Matt Napoli has been confirmed by the U.S. Senate as deputy administrator for defense nuclear nonproliferation at the National Nuclear Security Administration.

In his new role, Napoli will oversee efforts to prevent proliferation, reduce nuclear and radiological terrorism threats, and support arms control monitoring and verification.

A Monroe native, Napoli earned a mechanical engineering degree from Louisiana Tech in 2004. He later received a master’s degree in mechanical engineering from the Naval Postgraduate School and a Ph.D. in public policy and administration with a concentration in science and technology policy from George Washington University.

He previously served as executive director of foreign and public affairs at Naval Reactors, where his responsibilities included managing U.S. nuclear-powered warship port entry policy across more than 50 countries, advising senior Navy leaders on foreign policy, and coordinating with the National Security Council and intelligence community.

Napoli was commissioned as a Navy officer in 2004 and began his career as a nuclear components engineer for the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Program. He continued in federal civilian service with Naval Reactors following his military career.

Louisiana Tech officials praised Napoli’s confirmation. “Dr. Matt Napoli’s career demonstrates how a strong foundation in engineering can lead to meaningful impact on global security and nuclear policy,” said Collin Wick, dean of the College of Engineering and Science. “We’re proud of his achievements and the vital role he plays in advancing national and international security.”

Napoli is a lifetime member of the Council on Foreign Relations and has received multiple awards for his government service, including two Department of Navy superior public service awards for his work on the trilateral AUKUS security partnership and with Japan. He has also received recognition from the Department of Energy, FBI, and the U.S. Navy.