Yvonne Madelaine Claeys was born in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. This marked the beginning of a life that would eventually transcend national boundaries and propel her into the forefront of space exploration technology.

Despite facing societal pressures that discouraged women from pursuing careers in STEM fields, Yvonne excelled in her studies, earning a Bachelor of Science degree with honors in mathematics and chemistry. This achievement laid the foundation for her future endeavors in engineering.

Yvonne joined the Douglas Aircraft Company (later McDonnell Douglas), where she initially faced limited opportunities due to her gender. However, she persevered and gradually gained recognition for her skills and expertise, working on various aerospace projects.

Yvonne transitioned to RCA Astro Electronics (later GE Astrospace and Lockheed Martin), where she began to specialize in rocket propulsion systems. This period marked a pivotal moment in her career, as she focused on the work that would define her legacy.

Yvonne Brill invented the hydrazine resistojet propulsion system, a highly efficient and cost-effective rocket propellant system designed to keep satellites in orbit for extended periods. This innovation revolutionized satellite technology and became widely adopted in the aerospace industry. The resistojet allowed satellites to maintain their positions more accurately and for longer durations, saving fuel and increasing mission lifespan. This invention is arguably her most significant contribution.

After leaving RCA, Yvonne continued to consult for various aerospace companies and government agencies, including NASA. She remained actively involved in research and development, contributing to further advancements in rocket propulsion technology.

Yvonne received the Medal for Science from the Engineering Society of Detroit, a prestigious award recognizing her exceptional contributions to the field of engineering and her pioneering work in rocket propulsion.

President Barack Obama awarded Yvonne Brill the National Medal of Technology and Innovation, the highest honor bestowed by the United States government to engineers, innovators, and scientists. This recognition underscored the profound impact of her career-long dedication to space exploration and the advancement of rocket technology.

Yvonne Brill passed away in Princeton, New Jersey, at the age of 88. Her death marked the end of an era for women in STEM and for the field of rocket propulsion. However, her legacy continues to inspire future generations of engineers and scientists.