Dr. Martín Abadi
John Leland Atwood MEMBERS
First Vice President, North American Aviation
Walton, Kentucky, United States
More Info
  • 1993
  • Aerospace and Transportation Engineering (A.T.E)
More Info
  • 1993
  • Aerospace and Transportation Engineering (A.T.E)
Election Remark
John Leland Atwood was an influential figure in aviation history, notably for leading the development of iconic aircraft such as the P-51 Mustang and overseeing the Apollo spacecraft design.

Born in Walton, Kentucky, Atwood began his engineering journey at Hardin-Simmons University, further honing his skills with postgraduate studies at the University of Texas.

Joining North American Aviation in 1934, he rose through its ranks, guiding the company during critical periods of aviation advancement, including World War II and the Cold War.
 
Under Atwood's vision, North American produced the F-86 Sabre, dominating air combat in Korea, and ventured into space with the X-15.

Atwood’s leadership continued with the formation of North American Rockwell, driving aerospace innovation into the space age.

His work earned him presidential recognition, multiple industry accolades, and induction into prestigious halls of fame, reflecting his significant contributions to aeronautics and astronautics.

Atwood's legacy is commemorated in educational institutions and remembered through portrayals in media, showcasing the breadth of his impact until his death in 1999.

He was elected as member of the Euorpean Academy of Engineering in 1993.