Library: History of Lockheed Shunk Works
Before Hollywood took center stage, Lockheed Aircraft Corporation made Burbank a powerhouse of innovation, employing tens of thousands and producing aircraft that helped shape the outcome of World War II. For many local families, Lockheed wasn’t just a workplace. It was a defining part of community life and a source of pride.
At the heart of this legacy was the legendary Skunk Works, founded by visionary engineer Clarence "Kelly" Johnson. This small, agile team revolutionized aviation with groundbreaking designs like the P-38 Lightning, U-2, and the iconic SR-71 Blackbird - each pushing the limits of speed, altitude, and imagination.
Join us as we celebrate the people, ideas, and ingenuity behind these achievements. This program offers a chance to honor those who worked at Lockheed and to introduce a new generation to Burbank’s remarkable role in shaping aviation history.
Event Snapshot
Date
June 17, 2026
Time
7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Location
Buena Vista Branch Library (300 N. Buena Vista St.)
Capacity
Burbank