The Impossible Factory: A Look Inside Kelly Johnson and the Legendary Lockheed Skunk Works
Wednesday, June 17, 2026 • 7:00 PM • Join author Josh Dean and former Skunk Works Director Steve Justice for a fascinating look at Kelly Johnson, the legendary Lockheed Skunk Works, and the innovations that changed aviation history.
The Aero Club of Southern California is pleased to share an upcoming free public event that may be of particular interest to aviation, aerospace, and engineering enthusiasts.
On June 17, 2026, the Burbank Public Library will host The Impossible Factory, an evening centered around the new book The Impossible Factory: The Remarkable True Story of Kelly Johnson and the Lockheed Skunk Works: America’s Innovation Machine by author Josh Dean. The event will feature Dean in conversation with former Lockheed Martin Skunk Works Director Steve Justice, offering attendees a unique opportunity to explore the history, innovation, and legacy of one of aerospace’s most influential organizations.
Kelly Johnson remains one of the most significant figures in aviation history and was honored by ACSC as the 1982 Howard Hughes Memorial Award recipient. His leadership and vision helped shape the Lockheed Skunk Works into a world-renowned center of aerospace innovation responsible for some of the most groundbreaking aircraft ever developed.
According to event organizers, much of Josh Dean’s research was conducted using the Kelly Johnson archives at The Huntington Library, helping bring new insight into Johnson’s remarkable career and the enduring impact of the Skunk Works program.
Event Details
📅 Wednesday, June 17, 2026
🕖 7:00 PM
📍 Buena Vista Branch Library, Burbank, California
The event is free to attend, though registration is requested to help ensure adequate seating. Additional event details and registration information can be found here: The Impossible Factory – Burbank Public Library Event Registration
ACSC extends its thanks to Hubert Kozak and the Burbank Public Library for sharing this event with our membership and the broader Southern California aviation community.
