A Pilot’s Journey: Jeremy Johnson’s Role in NASA’s Aviation Research
In the early hours, Jeremy Johnson, clad in a dark blue flight suit and sturdy black steel-toed boots, prepares for another day of work. Following a comprehensive pre-flight briefing with his team, his focus shifts to the aircraft hangar, where the next task awaits—getting a plane airborne.
As Johnson gently maneuvers a compact white-and-blue propeller aircraft from the hangar to the runway, a familiar voice crackles through his headset, delivering the crucial words: “NASA 606, cleared for takeoff.” These moments mark just another routine day for Johnson, who serves as a research pilot and aviation safety officer at NASA’s Glenn Research Center in Cleveland. His work involves piloting NASA aircraft to support critical scientific research and testing. Johnson collaborates closely with researchers to meticulously plan and execute flights, ensuring the collection of vital data while maintaining safety protocols.
Johnson’s journey to NASA was not a direct flight path. Before joining the agency, he served in the U.S. Air Force, flying missions globally in C-17 cargo aircraft, managing unmanned reconnaissance operations in California, and instructing young aviators in Oklahoma on the fundamentals of flying combat missions.
Currently, Johnson is at Glenn Research Center for a four-month stint under the Department of Defense SkillBridge fellowship. This program is specifically designed to assist transitioning service members, offering them a chance to gain valuable civilian work experience through training, apprenticeships, or internships during their final 180 days of military service.
"SkillBridge has been an incredible resource for my transition from military to civilian work," Johnson reflected. "In the Air Force, the mission was all about flying. At NASA Glenn, the mission is the research—the science."
In his role, Johnson has contributed to two pivotal projects at NASA. One project focuses on testing the efficacy of laser systems for communication and navigation signals. This involves outfitting aircraft with specialized research hardware and taking them into flight to assess performance in real-time conditions. The other project is part of NASA’s Air Mobility Pathfinders initiative, which investigates how 5G telecommunications infrastructure can facilitate the safe integration of electric air taxis into national airspace. The work Johnson and his team undertake aids NASA’s broader mission to advance technology and drive innovation for the collective benefit of society.
"It’s exhilarating to witness research hardware transition from the lab to the aircraft, and then see it in action during flight," Johnson shared. "Every flight is more than just a routine operation; it’s a small but significant part of a grander, more ambitious project. It’s a reminder that this work could potentially redefine scientific frontiers and discovery."
Johnson’s passion for aviation has been a lifelong journey. During college, he worked as a valet to fund his flying lessons. To further hone his skills, one summer he embarked on a cross-country flight in a Cessna with his aunt, who is a commercial pilot. They flew over iconic landmarks, including the Hudson River with New York City’s skyscrapers and Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, where the Wright brothers first took flight. Even while stationed in California, Johnson utilized his skills to fly skydivers part-time.
Despite his extensive flying experience, Johnson still relishes the view from a window seat on commercial flights, appreciating the vistas from above.
However, Johnson’s path to becoming a pilot wasn’t without its challenges. He recalls a particularly turbulent first solo flight where strong crosswinds diverted his plane off the runway, landing him in the grass. Though he eventually regained his confidence and returned to flying, the incident made him question his abilities and resolve.
"I don’t know anyone who flies for a living who had an entirely smooth journey," Johnson admitted. "For anyone contemplating a career in aviation, or any aspiration really, persistently pursue it. Let others close doors on you—don’t close them on yourself. I kept knocking until I found an opening."
Johnson’s journey is emblematic of perseverance and adaptability. His transition from military service to supporting cutting-edge research at NASA reflects his ability to embrace new challenges and contribute to advancements in aviation technology. Through programs like SkillBridge, service members like Johnson are provided avenues to apply their skills in civilian contexts, enriching both their personal development and the organizations they join.
This story of transition and innovation underscores the importance of fostering environments where experienced professionals can leverage their unique skills to further scientific exploration and technological advancement. As NASA continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in aviation and aerospace, individuals like Jeremy Johnson play a vital role in turning visionary ideas into reality.
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