Mckinley Thompson Jr.

The automotive sector has been shaped by brilliant innovators whose contributions often go unrecognised particularly those of Black pioneers. These individuals broke barriers, created groundbreaking designs, and paved the way for generations to come. One of the most influential figures is McKinley Thompson Jr., whose vision and creativity helped define modern automotive design. 

McKinley Thompson Jr. (1922 – 2006) 

First African American Automotive Designer at Ford Motor Company 

McKinley Thompson Jr. holds a celebrated place in history as the first African American automotive designer at a major car manufacturer.

His influence is embedded in some of Ford’s most iconic vehicles, including the Ford Bronco, Mustang, Thunderbird, and GT40.

• Early Life & Education 
  Born in Queens, New York on November 8, 1922, Thompson graduated high school in 1940 before serving in the U.S. Army during World War II. There, he worked as an engineering design layout coordinator for the Army Signal Corps until 1953. That same year, he entered—and won—the “From Dream to Drawing Board” scholarship competition sponsored by Motor Trend magazine. This achievement earned him a place at the ArtCenter College of Design in California, where he became the school’s first African American student.
• Career at Ford 
  After graduating in 1956, Thompson was hired by Ford Motor Company by renowned designer Alex Tremulis. He became the first black automotive designer at Ford, Over the next three decades (1956–1984), he contributed to some of Ford’s most legendary vehicles, shaping the identity of American automotive design.
• The Warrior Project 
  Beyond his corporate work, Thompson pursued a visionary project of his own: an affordable, all-terrain vehicle made from Royalex plastic, a material that allowed for low-cost mass production and easy transport. He named it “The Warrior.” Although Ford eventually withdrew support, Thompson continued developing the concept in his own garage, driven by a belief in creating accessible transportation that could benefit communities worldwide.
• Legacy 
  Despite his remarkable contributions, Thompson’s work has too often been overlooked. His career stands as a testament to innovation, perseverance, and trailblazing spirit. He not only shaped iconic vehicles but also paved the way for future generations of designers and engineers of colour in the automotive industry.

McKinley Thompson Jr.’s story reminds us that Black history is deeply woven into the fabric of innovation. By celebrating his achievements, we ensure that his legacy and the legacies of others like him continue to inspire the future of mobility. 

Learn more about him here and here.