Sally Hasselbrack, Ph.D.

Dr. Sally Hasselbrack is a distinguished Textile Materials Specialist whose groundbreaking work has significantly advanced aerospace engineering and aviation safety. She earned her Ph.D. in Textile Science from the University of Minnesota–Twin Cities, building a strong foundation in textile engineering, material performance, and composite technologies.

During her 27-year career at Boeing as a Senior Technical Fellow, Dr. Hasselbrack led major innovations in aircraft materials and safety systems. She designed the lightning strike diverter system using .002 copper mesh wire for the B-2 Bomber and contributed similar technology for the F-15 fighter aircraft. She also designed a composite component for the V-22 Osprey and restructured carpeting and upholstery systems for the Boeing 757, 767, and 777 to reduce weight while maintaining durability.

A recognized leader in aviation safety, Dr. Hasselbrack developed seat fire-blocking materials that contributed to the FAA’s 1984 Seat Fire Blocking Regulation, helping improve passenger survivability in post-crash fires. She later served as an FAA Designated Engineering Representative (DER) for flammability at Boeing and Heath Tecna Aerospace Company.

Her research also supported early composite reinforcement studies for the 787 Dreamliner in collaboration with the University of Washington Department of Chemical Engineering. In addition, she authored the textbook Textile Materials for Airplane Interiors and received the Outstanding Alumni Achievement Award from the University of Minnesota in 2000.

Now based in Seattle, Washington, Dr. Hasselbrack continues to inspire professionals in aerospace engineering and materials science through her lifelong commitment to innovation, safety, and technical excellence.