Barbara “Bobbie” Crawford Johnson was the first woman to graduate in general engineering from the University of Illinois in 1946. Moving to California to begin her aerospace career with North American Aviation (later known as Rockwell International, Space Division), Johnson quickly demonstrated her technical acumen and leadership skills. The most senior technical woman in her division, she played critical roles in many projects, including the Hound Dog and Navaho missile projects, followed by efforts from the beginning of the Apollo program, and ultimately, Space Shuttle missions. Her significant awards include the Society of Women Engineers’ 1974 Achievement Award and the University of Illinois’ Distinguished Engineering Alumni Award. She was active in SWE leadership roles, helping establish SWE’s Fellow grade in 1980.