Form 990 for tax year 2025
Filed by AEROSPACE MUSEUM OF CALIFORNIA FOUNDATION.
Totals
- Total revenue
- $1,998,515
- Total expenses
- $1,655,469
- Contributions and grants received
- $846,552
- Grants paid
- $0
- Program service revenue
- $869,883
- Investment income
- $4,410
- Other revenue
- $277,670
- Total assets, end of year
- $3,798,317
- Total liabilities, end of year
- $4,706,862
- Net assets or fund balances, end of year
- -$908,545
- Program services expenses (Part IX)
- $1,181,825
- Management and general expenses
- $294,632
- Fundraising expenses
- $179,012
- Program service expenses (Part III)
- $1,181,825
Program services were 71.4% of total expenses calculated — Part IX's program-services column over total expenses, both as filed.
Line items
Every line the filer filed in Parts VIII, IX and X, as filed and in filed order. Blank columns are left out, and the lines are not forced to add up to the totals above.
Revenue
Part VIII, the statement of revenue.
-
1c · Fundraising events
$15,340
-
1e · Government grants (contributions)
$20,559
-
1f · All other contributions, gifts and grants
$810,653
-
1g · Noncash contributions included above
$331,691
-
2a · Program service revenue: Admissions
total $605,795 · related or exempt $605,795
-
2b · Program service revenue: Education Programs
total $184,322 · related or exempt $184,322
-
2c · Program service revenue: Membership Dues & Assessments
total $79,766 · related or exempt $79,766
-
3 · Investment income
total $4,410 · excluded $4,410
-
4 · Income from investment of tax-exempt bond proceeds
total $0
-
5 · Royalties
total $0
-
6a · Gross rents
personal property $184,437
-
6b · Less rental expenses
personal property $27,423
-
6c · Rental income or loss
personal property $157,014
-
6d · Net rental income or loss
total $157,014 · excluded $157,014
-
7d · Net gain or loss
total $0
-
8a · Fundraising events: gross income
$102,275
-
8a · Fundraising events: contributions included on line 1c
$15,340
-
8b · Fundraising events: direct expenses
$17,425
-
8c · Net income from fundraising events
total $84,850 · excluded $84,850
-
9c · Net income from gaming
total $0
-
10a · Gross sales of inventory
$237,972
-
10b · Cost of goods sold
$202,166
-
10c · Net income from sales of inventory
total $35,806 · excluded $35,806
-
11e · Other revenue, total
$0
Functional expenses
Part IX, the statement of functional expenses.
-
1 · Grants to domestic organizations and governments
total $0
-
2 · Grants to domestic individuals
total $0
-
3 · Grants to foreign organizations and individuals
total $0
-
4 · Benefits paid to or for members
total $0
-
5 · Compensation of officers, directors and key employees
total $361,251 · program services $235,097 · management and general $72,137 · fundraising $54,017
-
6 · Compensation of disqualified persons
total $0
-
7 · Other salaries and wages
total $534,373 · program services $347,763 · management and general $106,706 · fundraising $79,904
-
8 · Pension plan contributions
total $0
-
9 · Other employee benefits
total $0
-
10 · Payroll taxes
total $72,394 · program services $50,676 · management and general $14,479 · fundraising $7,239
-
11a · Fees: management
total $0
-
11b · Fees: legal
total $0
-
11c · Fees: accounting
total $43,146 · program services $34,517 · management and general $6,472 · fundraising $2,157
-
11d · Fees: lobbying
total $0
-
11e · Fees: professional fundraising services
total $0
-
11f · Fees: investment management
total $0
-
11g · Fees: other
total $0
-
12 · Advertising and promotion
total $66,956 · program services $53,532 · management and general $10,060 · fundraising $3,364
-
13 · Office expenses
total $1,026 · program services $842 · management and general $143 · fundraising $41
-
14 · Information technology
total $2,637 · program services $2,109 · management and general $396 · fundraising $132
-
15 · Royalties
total $0
-
16 · Occupancy
total $0
-
17 · Travel
total $5,128 · program services $4,615 · management and general $513
-
18 · Travel or entertainment for public officials
total $0
-
19 · Conferences, conventions and meetings
total $0
-
20 · Interest
total $16,153 · program services $14,538 · management and general $1,615
-
21 · Payments to affiliates
total $0
-
22 · Depreciation, depletion and amortization
total $188,867 · program services $135,711 · management and general $33,066 · fundraising $20,090
-
23 · Insurance
total $45,431 · program services $40,888 · management and general $4,543
-
24a · Other expenses: Utilities
total $72,394 · program services $65,155 · management and general $7,239
-
24b · Other expenses: Museum Supplies
total $52,506 · program services $42,005 · management and general $7,876 · fundraising $2,625
-
24c · Other expenses: Gift In Kind Expenses
total $31,691 · program services $22,772 · management and general $5,548 · fundraising $3,371
-
24d · Other expenses: Scholarships
total $30,066 · program services $21,604 · management and general $5,264 · fundraising $3,198
-
24e · All other expenses
total $131,450 · program services $110,001 · management and general $18,575 · fundraising $2,874
Balance sheet
Part X, book values.
-
1 · Cash, non-interest-bearing
beginning of year $437,941 · end of year $249,112
-
2 · Savings and temporary cash investments
beginning of year $20,998 · end of year $232,094
-
3 · Pledges and grants receivable
end of year $0
-
4 · Accounts receivable
beginning of year $270,435 · end of year $335,400
-
5 · Loans and receivables from officers and key people
end of year $0
-
6 · Loans and receivables from disqualified persons
end of year $0
-
7 · Other notes and loans receivable
end of year $0
-
8 · Inventories for sale or use
beginning of year $13,273 · end of year $13,273
-
9 · Prepaid expenses and deferred charges
end of year $0
-
10a · Land, buildings and equipment: cost or other basis
$7,882,786
-
10b · Land, buildings and equipment: accumulated depreciation
$4,954,457
-
10c · Land, buildings and equipment, net
beginning of year $2,759,399 · end of year $2,928,329
-
11 · Investments: publicly traded securities
end of year $0
-
12 · Investments: other securities
end of year $0
-
13 · Investments: program-related
end of year $0
-
14 · Intangible assets
beginning of year $40,113 · end of year $36,985
-
15 · Other assets
end of year $3,124
-
17 · Accounts payable and accrued expenses
beginning of year $145,025 · end of year $122,855
-
23 · Secured mortgages and notes payable
beginning of year $4,628,845 · end of year $4,584,007
-
27 · Net assets without donor restrictions
beginning of year -$1,231,711 · end of year -$908,545
Mission and programs · 2025
Mission
As a Smithsonian Affiliate, the Aerospace Museum of California (AMC) serves as a dynamic hub for discovery, where visitors of all ages can engage with the past, present, and future of aviation and space exploration. AMC provides immersive, hands-on experiences that ignite curiosity and foster a passion for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math). With a world-class aircraft and engine collection, interactive exhibits, and innovative educational programs, the museum creates opportunities for learners to explore groundbreaking technology, dream of new possibilities, and discover the limitless potential of aerospace and engineering.
Activities or mission (Part I)
Honoring the past and inspiring the future through STEM education, the Aerospace Museum of California (AMC) delivers a world-class experience that celebrates aviation and aerospace while inspiring the next generation of innovators, explorers, and leaders.
-
The Aerospace Museum of California is a Smithsonian Affiliate and a leading STEM education hub in Northern California, providing immersive, hands-on learning experiences that connect visitors to the past, present, and future of aerospace. With a 40,000 square foot exhibit hall, a 4.5-acre outdoor Air Park, and more than 40 historic aircraft and aerospace artifacts, the museum serves as a dynamic center for discovery, innovation, and inspiration. In 2025, the museum significantly expanded its reach and community impact, welcoming 143,149 visitors and engaging 65,133 students through field trips, summer camps, and educational programming. This growth reflects a 29% increase in visitors over the prior year and demonstrates the museums continued momentum as a regional leader in STEM education and access. The museum remains deeply committed to removing financial barriers to participation. Through donor-supported access initiatives, schools are able to attend at reduced cost and every student receives a scholarship, ensuring that 100% of students can participate regardless of financial circumstances. This commitment allows the museum to reach underserved communities across the Sacramento region and inspire students who may not otherwise have access to STEM opportunities.STEM Education and Student ImpactSTEM education remains the museums highest priority and the foundation of its mission-driven work. In 2025, 13,859 students participated in structured, standards-aligned museum tours, while 2,649 youth engaged in hands-on summer camp programs designed to build technical skills, creativity, and confidence. Across all programs, more than 65,000 students were reached through immersive STEM learning experiences aligned with California State Academic Standards. These programs are intentionally designed to spark curiosity, strengthen critical thinking, and introduce real-world career pathways in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. By combining hands-on activities with exposure to aviation and aerospace innovation, the museum helps students see themselves as future engineers, pilots, and problem-solvers.Signature Program We Can Do It TogetherThe museums flagship We Can Do It Together Women in STEAM initiative continues to serve as a powerful driver of equity and opportunity in STEM education. In 2025, the program hosted its fifth annual event, building on a legacy that has now served more than 5,000 girls since inception. In 2025 alone, more than 1,200 girls participated in hands-on workshops, panel discussions, and mentorship experiences with women leaders in STEAM careers. Participants explored career pathways, built confidence, and gained exposure to opportunities they may not have previously considered. The program directly addresses gender and access gaps in STEM fields and stands as a signature example of the museums commitment to empowering underserved and underrepresented students across the region.Exhibitions and Public EngagementIn 2025, the museum delivered high-impact exhibitions and immersive experiences that attracted record audiences and elevated public engagement. The Snoopy and the Red Baron traveling exhibition premiered in October and drew 50,012 visitors, making it one of the highest-attended exhibitions in the museums history. This highly interactive experience combined aviation history, storytelling, and hands-on STEM activities, including scavenger hunts and family-focused learning experiences that engaged visitors of all ages. The exhibit created meaningful entry points for young learners while reinforcing the museums role as a place where imagination and education intersect. In addition to this featured exhibition, the museum continued to offer a dynamic mix of rotating and permanent exhibits showcasing aerospace innovation, rare artifacts, and historic aircraft, reinforcing its national recognition as one of the top space and aviation museums in the United States.Scholarships and Workforce DevelopmentThe Aerospace Museum of California continues to build pathways into aerospace careers through targeted scholarship and workforce development programs. In 2025, the museum awarded Private Pilot License scholarships of $12,500 to aspiring young aviators, providing life-changing access to flight training and professional development. These scholarships are designed to remove financial barriers and create opportunities for students who demonstrate passion, dedication, and potential in aviation. By connecting education to real-world career pathways, the museum plays a critical role in developing the next generation of aerospace professionals.Community Engagement and PhilanthropyCommunity support and philanthropic investment are central to the museums success and growth. In 2025, the museum strengthened its network of supporters through initiatives such as the Emeritus Trustees Program, which brought together more than 50 leaders from corporate, civic, education, and philanthropic sectors. These leaders provide essential support that expands access to STEM education, enhances exhibits, and sustains long-term program growth. Through leadership recognition events and community partnerships, the museum continues to deepen engagement, increase visibility, and inspire investment in its mission. This collaborative model ensures that the museum remains a vibrant and accessible resource for the entire region.Volunteer ImpactVolunteers play a vital role in delivering the museums programs and extending its reach into the community. In 2025, 386 active volunteers contributed 17,188 hours of service in support of museum operations, educational programs, and visitor engagement. Their dedication enhances the visitor experience, supports program delivery, and strengthens the museums ability to serve a growing and diverse audience.Growth and Organizational ImpactThe Aerospace Museum of California continues to demonstrate strong, measurable growth in both reach and impact. With a 29% increase in annual visitors and expanded program participation, the museum is reaching more students and families than ever before. Operating without direct city or state funding, the museum relies on earned revenue, philanthropy, and strategic partnerships to sustain and expand its mission. This model reflects both fiscal responsibility and strong community trust. As the museum continues to grow, it remains focused on delivering high-quality STEM education, increasing access for underserved populations, and inspiring the next generation to explore, discover, and lead in aerospace and beyond.Title SummaryIn 2025, the Aerospace Museum of California achieved record growth and impact, inspiring more than 143,000 visitors and engaging over 65,000 students through hands-on STEM education, transformative programs, and high-impact exhibitions. Through strong community support, innovative programming, and a deep commitment to access and equity, the museum continues to serve as a leading force in aerospace education and workforce development in Northern California.
Expenses $1,181,825 · Revenue $790,117
As filed on the 2025 return.
Listed in Part VII
-
Thomas Jones
President & CEO
- Total calculated
- $191,250
- From this org
- $191,250
- From related orgs
- $0
- Other
- $0
- Hours/week
- 40
Schedule J breakdown matched by us
- Base
- $191,250
- Bonus
- not reported
- Other
- not reported
- Deferred
- not reported
- Nontaxable benefits
- not reported
- Filer's total
- $191,250
-
Karen Jones
VP - Advancement
- Total calculated
- $170,000
- From this org
- $170,000
- From related orgs
- $0
- Other
- $0
- Hours/week
- 40
Schedule J breakdown matched by us
- Base
- $170,000
- Bonus
- not reported
- Other
- not reported
- Deferred
- not reported
- Nontaxable benefits
- not reported
- Filer's total
- $170,000
-
Linda Martin
Board Chair
- Total calculated
- $0
- Hours/week
- 5
-
Jason Sample
Director
- Total calculated
- $0
- Hours/week
- 1
-
Melissa Bittman
Director
- Total calculated
- $0
- Hours/week
- 1
-
Michael Thomas
Director
- Total calculated
- $0
- Hours/week
- 1
-
George Lonergan
Treasurer
- Total calculated
- $0
- Hours/week
- 3
-
Richard Launey
Director
- Total calculated
- $0
- Hours/week
- 1
-
Taylor Toledo
Director
- Total calculated
- $0
- Hours/week
- 1
-
Jeff Harris
Director
- Total calculated
- $0
- Hours/week
- 2
-
Cathy Cook
Director
- Total calculated
- $0
- Hours/week
- 1
-
Neil Brown
Vice Chair
- Total calculated
- $0
- Hours/week
- 3
-
Dave Long
Secretary
- Total calculated
- $0
- Hours/week
- 5
-
Dr General Davie
Exec Board Dir
- Total calculated
- $0
- Hours/week
- 2
-
Jim Cuff
Director
- Total calculated
- $0
- Hours/week
- 1
-
Rich Desmond
Director
- Total calculated
- $0
- Hours/week
- 1
-
Anastasia Long
Director
- Total calculated
- $0
- Hours/week
- 1
-
Roger Dickinson
Director
- Total calculated
- $0
- Hours/week
- 1
-
Dennis Peters
Director
- Total calculated
- $0
- Hours/week
- 1
Compensation is as filed in Part VII: reportable pay from this organization and from related organizations, other compensation, and hours per week. The total, marked calculated, is our sum of the three dollar columns, with a blank column counted as $0; the form itself has no total. On a Form 990-EZ the columns are Part IV's instead, and on a Form 990-PF Part VIII's — compensation, contributions to benefit plans, and expense account — and the total sums those. A Schedule J breakdown is as filed: base pay, bonus, other, deferred compensation and nontaxable benefits from this organization, with any from related organizations beside each, and the filer's own total. It is shown with the Part VII listing of the same name on the same return. The form gives no key between the two, so that pairing is ours, and is marked matched by us.
Schedule J
Answered yes
- 2 · Substantiation required before reimbursing expenses
- 3 · Compensation committee
- 3 · Form 990 of other organizations
- 3 · Written employment contract
- 3 · Compensation survey or study
- 3 · Approval by the board or compensation committee
Answered no
- 4a · Severance or change-of-control payment
- 4b · Supplemental nonqualified retirement plan
- 4c · Equity-based compensation arrangement
- 5a · Pay contingent on this organization's revenues
- 5b · Pay contingent on a related organization's revenues
- 6a · Pay contingent on this organization's net earnings
- 6b · Pay contingent on a related organization's net earnings
- 7 · Other non-fixed payments
- 8 · Paid under the initial-contract exception
Part I's answers as filed. A line not listed was left unanswered; on lines 1a and 3 that means the box was not checked.
Grants on this return
No itemized grants to organizations on this return.
Provenance
- Return type
- form_990
- Tax year
- 2025
- Filed
- 14 May 2026
- IRS schema version
- 2025v4.1
- Source object
- 202611349349308066
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