“Star Trek: Starfleet Academy” is a treasure trove of homages to the characters and actors who have played pivotal roles in shaping the legendary franchise. The James T. Kirk Pavilion stands as a notable feature at Starfleet Academy, and there’s even a section of the outdoor area dedicated to a guest star who left a lasting impact. These tributes are particularly fitting as “Star Trek” marks its 60th anniversary. While many of these acknowledgments spotlight the actors who have brought the series to life, there’s a poignant tribute that honors a behind-the-scenes contributor whose efforts allowed us to fully engage with the visionary world of “Star Trek.”

Episode 3 of “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy,” titled “Vitus Reflux,” wraps up with a heartfelt message: “In loving memory of Carla Mingiardi.” Mingiardi, a talented costume cutter for “Star Trek: Short Treks” and “Star Trek: Discovery,” passed away from cancer on September 9, 2024, at the age of 59, as noted in her obituary. By dedicating this particular episode to Mingiardi, the series honors her significant contributions and her involvement in the franchise.

Carla Mingiardi played a crucial role as a costume cutter during Season 3 of “Star Trek: Discovery,” which featured a leap forward to the 32nd Century. This time jump may be why her tribute is fittingly placed in “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy.” This pivotal time shift not only creates major moments within the “Star Trek: Discovery” narrative but also lays the foundation for the newer series, set in the same era. Additionally, it showcases recurring appearances by Discovery’s Commander Jett Reno (played by Tig Notaro), further continuing the legacy of the show to which Mingiardi contributed her talents.

Carla Mingiardi was a costume cutter throughout Season 3 of “Star Trek: Discovery,” which is the same season that features a time jump into the 32nd Century, and that could be part of the reason why her tribute was saved for “Star Trek: Starfleet Academy.” This time jump builds big moments in the “Star Trek: Discovery” timeline, but it also sets the groundwork for the subsequent series, which is set in the same century. It also includes consistent appearances by Discovery’s Commander Jett Reno (Tig Notaro), making this a continuation of the show that Mingiardi put so much work into.

“Star Trek: Starfleet Academy,” Season 1, Episode 3, “Vitus Reflux,” is the perfect episode to dedicate to Mingiardi because the costumes are essential to the story. Much of this episode centers around Starfleet Academy and the War College duking it out during a war simulation game called Calica. The laser-tag-style game requires players to wear black armor that manages to look sleek in its design, and each team has a mascot who protects a crucial target. Starfleet Academy’s mascot is a lapling who looks like a lizard with giant bug-like eyes, and the War College is represented by a furry horned creature known as a mugato. These species prove just how imaginative the costume department can be as they make the mascots look other-worldly and familiar all at the same time. Mingiardi’s obituary states that she was always up for having some fun, and this episode exhibits that quality through its costuming.