Inventor of Super Soaker

Lonnie Johnson | Biography

• By Stone Palmer
• Original : March 17, 2025

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Who is Lonnie Johnson?

Lonnie Johnson, an African American engineer and inventor born in Mobile, Alabama, in 1949, is best known for creating the Super Soaker, a revolutionary water gun that has become a staple of childhood play. Johnson’s early fascination with science and technology was nurtured by his father, leading him to construct various mechanical devices from a young age. After graduating from Tuskegee University with degrees in mechanical engineering and nuclear engineering, he began a noteworthy career at NASA, contributing to significant projects like the Galileo mission studying Jupiter.

In 1982, while working on a refrigeration system for a NASA project, Johnson accidentally developed a water-squirting device in his bathroom, which became the prototype for the Super Soaker. Although it took seven years to find a manufacturer, Larami released the Super Soaker in 1990, which was an immediate sensation. Under Johnson's guidance, the toy evolved into a cultural phenomenon, with global sales exceeding 250 million units, generating over $1 billion in revenue. Today, Johnson continues to inspire future generations through mentorship and advocacy for diversity in STEM fields.

Early Life and Education

Lonnie Johnson was born in Mobile, Alabama, in 1949, where curiosity and a passion for science flourished under the guidance of his father, an Army truck driver. From a young age, Johnson was fascinated by how things worked. His father taught him the fundamentals of electric currents and appliance repair, fostering a supportive environment that encouraged experimentation. Johnson's curiosity led him to create rockets and even dabble in rocket fuel experiments, which, instead of causing alarm, prompted his parents to buy him a hot plate for safer experimentation outdoors.

By the time he entered high school, Johnson had developed impressive technical skills, earning him the nickname “The Professor” among his peers. He further showcased his ingenuity by building a robot named Linex, which he entered into a science fair hosted by the University of Alabama. Despite being the only Black student competing, Johnson’s invention won first place, highlighting his talent and potential, though it also underscored the systemic barriers he faced in accessing further academic opportunities. Instead of attending the University of Alabama, he pursued his degree in mechanical engineering at Tuskegee University, graduating in 1975 and laying the groundwork for his remarkable career in engineering and invention.

Career Beginnings: Working at NASA

Lonnie Johnson's journey into the world of aerospace engineering began when he was recruited by NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in 1979. There, he joined the team working on the historic Galileo mission, an endeavor that aimed to explore Jupiter and its moons. His role was pivotal, as he contributed to significant advancements in space science while working in an era marked by both technological challenges and groundbreaking discoveries. His time at NASA not only honed his technical skills but also solidified his reputation as an innovative engineer, ready to tackle complex problems.

During his tenure at NASA, Johnson stumbled upon the idea for the Super Soaker while experimenting with a new refrigeration system. By linking a nozzle to a bathroom faucet, he inadvertently created a high-pressure water stream that ignited his imagination. This serendipitous moment in the bathroom led him to envision a new type of water gun. While he initially focused on his duties with NASA, this revelation ultimately paved the way for his future as a toy inventor, showcasing how experiences in one field can surprisingly influence innovations in another.

Rise to Fame: The Super Soaker Success

Lonnie Johnson, a NASA engineer born in Mobile, Alabama in 1949, is the brilliant mind behind the iconic Super Soaker water gun. His fascination with technology began in childhood, guided by a supportive family that encouraged his scientific exploration. Johnson's early achievements, including a notable victory in a high school science fair with his robot Linex, highlighted his exceptional talent. After graduating from Tuskegee University, he embarked on a distinguished career that included pivotal roles at NASA and the military, laying the groundwork for his later innovations.

The concept for the Super Soaker emerged during Johnson's time at NASA while he was experimenting with a new refrigeration system. A serendipitous moment in his bathroom led to the creation of a powerful water stream, igniting his entrepreneurial spirit. After years of persistence, he partnered with the toy company Larami, leading to the Super Soaker's debut in 1990. Its immense popularity, resulting in over 250 million units sold and over $1 billion in revenue, established Johnson not only as a successful inventor but also as a transformative figure in the toy industry, influencing generations of children worldwide.

Continued Innovations and Mentorship

Lonnie Johnson's journey as an inventor did not end with the monumental success of the Super Soaker. After briefly returning to NASA, he harnessed his innovative spirit to collaborate with Hasbro, significantly elevating their Nerf product line. His impressive portfolio of over 100 patents reflects his relentless pursuit of advancements in technology and entertainment. While achieving considerable financial success from his inventions, Johnson remained committed to leveraging his platform for greater societal impact.

Recognizing the underrepresentation of minorities in STEM fields, Johnson has dedicated part of his life to mentorship, particularly for young people of color. He advocates for increased diversity within technology by emphasizing the importance of inclusion in driving innovation. He believes that to maintain global technological leadership, it is imperative to engage all demographics, noting that merely 10 percent of representation in large corporations does not reflect the true diversity of the population. Through various initiatives, Johnson not only inspires the next generation of scientists but also actively works to create pathways for their success in academia and industry.

Personal Life: Married Life and Children

Lonnie Johnson, renowned for his invention of the Super Soaker, maintains a fulfilling personal life that complements his impressive professional achievements. He is married, and alongside his wife, he has committed to fostering a supportive family environment. Their relationship is built on mutual respect and understanding, allowing them to navigate the challenges of both personal and professional realms. Johnson often emphasizes the importance of family values and their role in shaping his character and drive.

As a father, Johnson has instilled a strong sense of curiosity and ambition in his children, following the example set by his own parents. His daughter Aneka, who became the first to test the prototype of the Super Soaker, has been a significant source of inspiration for him. Beyond parenting, Johnson actively engages in mentoring, particularly focusing on underrepresented youth in science and engineering. His passion for education and mentorship reflects not only his dedication to innovation but also his desire to uplift the next generation of thinkers and creators.

Net Worth and Earnings: Financial Success

Lonnie Johnson, the ingenious creator of the Super Soaker, has turned innovative concepts into financial success. His iconic water gun has sold over 250 million units worldwide since its launch, generating substantial revenues for Larami and its parent company, Hasbro. To date, the Super Soaker has grossed over $1 billion, establishing Johnson as a key figure in the toy industry. His ability to blend creativity with engineering has not only revolutionized summer play for kids globally but has also positioned him as one of the wealthiest inventors in the toy sector.

In addition to his monumental success with the Super Soaker, Johnson’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through in his pursuit of patents and inventions across multiple fields. With over 100 patents credited to his name, Johnson's ventures extend beyond toys, showcasing advancements in technology and engineering that have potential applications in various industries. His financial legacy is not merely measured in dollars but also in his commitment to mentoring the next generation of inventors, particularly young people of color, thus fostering a more inclusive environment in the fields of science and technology.