Bruce Aikenhead, OC, was an illustrious Canadian aerospace engineer and a prominent figure in the national aerospace industry, best known for his work as deputy program director for the Canadarm development and as the inaugural Director-General of the Canadian Astronaut Program.

Born in Didsbury, Alberta, and raised in London, Ontario, he served in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II, later transitioning to a groundbreaking career in aerospace post-war.

After a brief stint with Avro Canada, Aikenhead contributed to NASA's Mercury mission, enhancing astronaut training through simulation technologies.

A return to Canada saw him influencing key satellite and spacecraft projects, including ISIS 2, and shaping Canada's role in space exploration by steering the selection process for the country's first astronaut.

A retirement filled with education advocacy and acknowledgment in the form of the Order of Canada capped a storied career, which he spent in dedication to aerospace advancements until passing away at 95.

He was elected as member of the Euorpean Academy of Engineering in 2001 and promoted as Emeritus member in 2013.