Anne McClain

Anne McClain, an astronaut, engineer, and former US Army officer, made history as the first African-American woman to serve on the International Space Station.

Astronaut

June 7, 1979

45

Anne McClain, born in Spokane, Washington, is a trailblazing astronaut and engineer who has made significant contributions to the field of space exploration. With a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from the United States Military Academy at West Point and a Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Bath, McClain’s educational background laid the foundation for her remarkable career.

After serving as an engineer officer in the U.S. Army, including a deployment to Iraq, McClain was selected as a NASA astronaut candidate in 2013. Her rigorous training culminated in her historic all-female spacewalk alongside Christina Koch in 2018, during which she conducted scientific experiments and performed maintenance tasks aboard the International Space Station (ISS).

McClain’s achievements have been widely recognized, earning her prestigious awards such as the NASA Exceptional Achievement Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, and the Army Achievement Medal. She has also been honored with the Amelia Earhart Fellowship and the Society of Women Engineers Achievement Award.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, McClain is known for her adventurous spirit and diverse interests. An avid runner, scuba diver, and guitar player, she is passionate about STEM education and outreach, inspiring young minds to pursue careers in science and engineering.

Anne McClain’s journey as an astronaut and engineer serves as an inspiration to aspiring scientists, engineers, and explorers worldwide. Her determination, resilience, and unwavering passion for space exploration have made her a role model for generations to come. McClain’s contributions continue to pave the way for future advancements in space exploration and inspire dreams of reaching for the stars.