Black Female Innovators in Tech: The Pioneers Who Shaped Our Future
In the world of technology, we often celebrate innovation and breakthroughs, but we must also recognise the voices that have been historically underrepresented. Black women, in particular, have made profound contributions to tech, yet their stories are often left untold. Today, we shine a light on three pioneering Black women whose work has helped shape the modern world as we know it: Katherine Johnson, Dr. Gladys West, and Dr. Patricia Bath.
Contents:
- Katherine Johnson: The Human Computer
- Dr Gladys West: The Mathematician Behind GPS
- Dr Patricia Bath: Revolutionary Ophthalmologist
- The Legacy of These Trailblazers
- Book of the Week: Nevertheless, She Persisted
- Video of the Week: Lisa Nichols – How to Let Your Light Shine Bright
Katherine Johnson: The Human Computer
At a time when technology was still in its infancy, Katherine Johnson’s genius as a mathematician made her a key player in the success of NASA’s early space missions. Known as a "human computer" for her extraordinary ability to perform complex calculations, her work on orbital mechanics was instrumental in the launch of the first U.S. spaceship by NASA. Her role in calculating trajectories for missions like the Apollo moon landing cannot be understated.
Despite being one of the first Black women to work at NASA as a scientist, Johnson’s perseverance in a field dominated by white men ensured that her talent and dedication would change the course of space exploration. Her story is a testament to the power of resilience in the face of systemic challenges.
Dr Gladys West: The Mathematician Behind GPS
Have you ever wondered who’s responsible for the GPS technology we use every day? One of the key contributors to this innovation is Dr. Gladys West, an African American mathematician from rural Virginia. Raised in an agrarian community, West’s journey to becoming one of the leading minds behind GPS began when she graduated top of her class and earned a scholarship to Virginia State College (now University).
Dr. West’s work at the U.S. Naval Proving Ground involved performing the mathematical calculations necessary to model the exact shape of the Earth. This breakthrough was essential to the development of the Global Positioning System, allowing us to determine our location from any point on the planet. Dr. West’s work paved the way for navigation systems we now rely on daily.
Dr Patricia Bath: Revolutionary Ophthalmologist
Dr. Patricia Bath was not only a brilliant ophthalmologist but also a revolutionary in the field of eye care. After completing medical school at Howard University and interning at Harlem Hospital, Dr. Bath noticed that Black communities, such as Harlem, had disproportionately high rates of visual impairment compared to more affluent areas. She realized that the disparity was largely due to a lack of access to adequate healthcare, rather than genetic factors.
In response, Dr. Bath proposed a program called Community Ophthalmology, which aimed to provide affordable eye care to underserved populations. Her most groundbreaking achievement, however, was her invention of the laser phaco probe, a device used to perform minimally invasive cataract surgery. This invention has restored the sight of millions around the world and revolutionized eye care.
Dr. Bath faced significant discrimination as a Black woman in medicine, but her determination and brilliance led her to become the first Black woman to receive a medical patent and the first female faculty member at UCLA's Department of Ophthalmology.
The Legacy of These Trailblazers
The stories of these incredible women are a reminder of the barriers Black women have had to overcome in STEM fields. Faced with racism, sexism, and systemic exclusion, they pushed through and made groundbreaking contributions that have reshaped the way we live today. Their legacy is not only a testament to their brilliance but also a call to action for future generations to continue breaking boundaries.
Book of the Week: Nevertheless, She Persisted
For those seeking further inspiration, we recommend Nevertheless, She Persisted: True Stories of Women Leaders in Tech by Pratima Rao Gluckman. This book features interviews with nineteen women in leadership positions across the tech industry. Their stories of overcoming adversity, smashing glass ceilings, and driving innovation in a male-dominated space are both empowering and eye-opening.
These narratives will help you understand the realities of being a woman in tech and provide you with actionable strategies for navigating similar obstacles.
Video of the Week: Lisa Nichols – How to Let Your Light Shine Bright
This week's video recommendation is How to Let Your Light Shine Bright by motivational speaker Lisa Nichols. In this video, Lisa reminds us that it’s essential to shine brightly, even when others try to dim your light. A compelling quote from the video is: “As your light gets brighter, people will tell you, ‘Your light's too bright.’ Then you just look at them and say, ‘Well, I'm not gonna dim my light, I'm just going to hand you some shades.’”
This uplifting video will empower you to own your space and be unapologetic about your success, regardless of the challenges you face.
Affirmation: My Light Will Not Go Unnoticed
As we wrap up this blog, I want to leave you with an important affirmation: "My light will not go unnoticed. I refuse to be afraid to let it shine." This powerful mantra is a reminder that, like Katherine Johnson, Dr. Gladys West, and Dr. Patricia Bath, you too can break barriers and create lasting change.
No matter the obstacles, your light is needed in this world—so let it shine.
The contributions of Black women to tech are immeasurable, and while they may not always get the recognition they deserve, their impact continues to shape the future. Let’s honour their legacy by amplifying their stories, pursuing our dreams, and making room for those who come after us.
