The first African-American woman in space was Dr. Jeanette Epps. She was set to serve as a flight engineer on a 2018 mission to the International Space Station. Dr. Epps holds a degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Maryland and earned a doctorate in aerospace engineering from the same institution. Before her career with NASA, she worked as a technical intelligence officer with the CIA. As a pioneer, her journey has inspired many aspiring scientists and engineers, particularly women and people of color in STEM fields, showcasing the increasing diversity within the aerospace industry.