05/22/2026
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, a time to honor the innovators, aviators, engineers, and explorers whose contributions have shaped aerospace and expanded what’s possible in flight.
From the earliest test pilots to today’s mission leaders, AAPI professionals have played a vital role in advancing the technologies, missions, and breakthroughs that define our industry.
At Mojave Air & Space Port, we’re proud to celebrate the individuals whose courage and brilliance continue to inspire the work happening across our runways, hangars, and test sites.
Born in Kealakekua, Hawaii, Col. Ellison Onizuka began his career as an Air Force flight test engineer before joining NASA as an astronaut.
In 1985, he flew aboard Space Shuttle Discovery (STS‑51‑C), becoming the first Asian American to reach space.
His dedication to exploration, engineering excellence, and service continues to inspire aerospace communities around the world.
Onizuka’s legacy reminds us that the path to discovery is built by those who dare to push boundaries, a spirit that lives on in every test flight over Mojave.
