James A. Joki, M.D. ’60

Dr. James Joki is a 1960 graduate of Ballard High School, and is a renowned scientist and medical doctor.

Wall of Recognition Inductee: 2006

Aeronautical and Astronomical engineer, NASA Flight controller, Physiologist, Doctor of Medicine in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Instructor at the UW, Department Chairman of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Northwest Hospital, Seattle.

Dr. Joki was the engineer responsible for the Extravehicular Mobility Unit, which is the space suit and life support system worn by the Astronauts. On the Apollo mission, after he heard, “Houston, we have a problem,” he and his unit went to work and successfully rescued the seemingly doomed mission. After this experience he merged his engineering knowledge and skill with graduate degrees in human physiology and medicine. He became a medical doctor and returned to Seattle to practice obstetrics and gynecology. When asked about his career changes, he said, “I was fortunate being on the team to assist Neil Armstrong make American footprints on the moon and space exploration history. Now, I’m even more fortunate to be on a medical team delivering healthy babies. Seeing a child’s footprint on a birth certificate is eye-witnessing America’s future.”

Awards: In 1969 Dr. Joki was presented with the NASA Apollo Mission Achievement Award and in 2005, he was recognized as an Honoree Flight Controller at the 35th Anniversary Reunion in Houston of the historic Apollo XIII mission. In medicine he is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. He holds the prestigious title of Diplomat on the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. In the summer of 2005, he was honored by the Seattle Scouting Council by being made a member of the Order of the Silver Marmot at Camp Parsons. Over the years he has been active as an Eagle Scout, a Scout Master and has volunteered many years as a scout camp doctor. He also volunteers his time and expertise to schools and community organizations promoting careers in science, engineering and medicine.