CHAPTER 6: NAA'S AEROPHYSICS LABORATORY

 In 1948, the landscape of the American aerospace industry was undergoing a dramatic transformation. The end of World War II had brought about a precipitous decline in government contracts for military aircraft. Companies like North American Aviation (NAA), which had thrived on the wartime demand for bombers, fighters, and trainers, were suddenly faced with the challenge of peacetime adaptation. Southern California, a hub for the aircraft manufacturing industry during the war, now teetered on the edge of economic uncertainty as thousands of skilled workers and engineers wondered what the future held.

For many aerospace firms, survival hinged on diversification and innovation. Some transitioned to civilian markets, producing commercial aircraft or leveraging their expertise in other industries. Others sought opportunities in the nascent fields of guided missiles, jet propulsion, and experimental technologies. North American Aviation distinguished itself during this period by taking bold steps into uncharted territories of aerospace science and engineering.

NAA's leadership recognized that the postwar era demanded a pivot from large-scale production to cutting-edge research and development. The company established its Aerophysics Laboratory to spearhead advancements in aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and materials science. This move set NAA apart from competitors, as it not only maintained a foothold in the shifting defense industry but also positioned itself as a pioneer in the exploration of supersonic and even spaceflight capabilities. By investing in theoretical research and experimental projects, NAA attracted top scientific talent and forged a path toward groundbreaking achievements that would define the aerospace industry for decades.

The Aerophysics Laboratory became a crucible of innovation, fostering a collaborative environment where physicists, engineers, and technicians tackled complex problems at the forefront of technology. This laboratory—one of the first of its kind in the United States—was emblematic of a broader trend in which private industry took on roles traditionally reserved for academia or government labs. North American Aviation’s strategic foresight in establishing this facility ensured that it remained relevant during the uncertain postwar years and well into the Cold War.

Walt Evans’ arrival at NAA in 1948 placed him at the epicenter of this dynamic period. Working within the Aerophysics Laboratory, he became part of a pioneering effort to redefine the limits of human achievement in aviation and beyond. As the industry grappled with an uncertain future, a virtual army of young engineers, many from the Midwest like Dad, flocked to Southern California. With their expertise, creativity, and resilience—these engineers played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of American aerospace innovation. This chapter of his life not only reflects his personal contributions but also illuminates the broader challenges and triumphs of a critical moment in technological history.