The Women Who Changed The Tech World

“Girls are capable of doing everything men are capable of doing. Sometimes they have more imagination than men”

– Katherine Johnson, NASA Mathematician

Happy Women’s Day! Today, we celebrate the incredible achievements of women around the world and honor their contributions to various fields. In the realm of technology, numerous trailblazing women have paved the way for innovation and progress. Icons like Ada Lovelace, often regarded as the world’s first computer programmer, and Grace Hopper, a pioneer in computer science and programming languages, broke barriers and inspired generations. Their indomitable spirit and passion for technology opened doors for countless women in the tech industry. As we commemorate Women’s Day, let’s acknowledge and appreciate the resilience, intelligence, and creativity of women who continue to shape the future of technology, making significant strides in a field that was once dominated by men. Here’s to the women who lead, innovate, and inspire!

Ada Lovelace, born Augusta Ada Byron in 1815, is celebrated as the world’s first computer programmer. As the daughter of the poet Lord Byron, Ada showed an early aptitude for mathematics and logic. Her collaboration with Charles Babbage on his Analytical Engine, a theoretical mechanical general-purpose computer, led to her writing extensive notes and algorithms for the machine. These notes, particularly her algorithm for calculating Bernoulli numbers, marked the first computer program ever published. Lovelace’s visionary insights into the potential of computing extended far beyond Babbage’s original concepts, as she anticipated the broader applications of computers beyond mere number crunching. Her contributions laid the foundation for modern computing and earned her the title of the “Enchantress of Numbers.” Ada Lovelace’s legacy continues to inspire generations of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields worldwide.

Grace Hopper, born in 1906, was a pioneering computer scientist and United States Navy rear admiral. Affectionately known as the “Queen of Code,” Hopper played a pivotal role in the development of computer programming. In the mid-20th century, she worked on the Harvard Mark I computer and later became a key contributor to the development of the UNIVAC I, the first commercially produced computer. Notably, Hopper was instrumental in the creation of the COBOL programming language, which significantly facilitated software development and paved the way for modern business applications. Her tireless dedication to advancing technology and her innovative mindset earned her numerous accolades, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Grace Hopper’s legacy extends beyond her groundbreaking technical achievements; she is remembered as a trailblazer who broke gender barriers in the male-dominated field of computing, inspiring generations to come.

Hedy Lamarr, born Hedwig Eva Maria Kiesler in 1914, was an Austrian-American actress and inventor who left an indelible mark on both the entertainment industry and technology. Renowned for her beauty and talent on the silver screen, Lamarr starred in numerous films during Hollywood’s Golden Age. Beyond her acting career, she possessed a keen intellect and a passion for science. During World War II, Lamarr, along with composer George Antheil, developed a frequency-hopping system for radio-controlled torpedoes to prevent enemy jamming. This innovative technology laid the groundwork for modern spread-spectrum communication, a key element in today’s wireless communication systems, including Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Despite facing challenges in having her invention recognized during her lifetime, Hedy Lamarr’s contributions to technology have since been acknowledged, highlighting her remarkable legacy as both an iconic actress and a groundbreaking inventor.

Annie Easley (1933–2011) was a pioneering African-American mathematician, computer scientist, and rocket scientist who made significant contributions to the field of aerospace engineering. Born in Alabama, Easley faced racial and gender discrimination throughout her life but persevered to become a trailblazer in her field. She began her career as a “human computer” at the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), which later became NASA. Easley played a crucial role in developing and implementing computer code for various projects, including the Centaur rocket stage and energy-conversion systems. Her work spanned multiple decades, and she witnessed the transition from manual computations to computer-based systems. Easley’s dedication, intelligence, and resilience broke barriers for women and minorities in STEM fields, leaving a lasting impact on the aerospace industry and inspiring future generations of scientists and engineers.

Adele Goldberg, born in 1945, is a renowned computer scientist and entrepreneur recognized for her pivotal role in the development of Smalltalk, a pioneering programming language with a profound impact on object-oriented programming. As a key member of the team at Xerox PARC in the 1970s, Goldberg contributed to the creation of Smalltalk, which not only introduced innovative programming concepts but also laid the foundation for modern graphical user interfaces. Co-founding ParcPlace Systems in 1987, she continued to champion Smalltalk’s commercialization and played a vital role in shaping the landscape of software development. Adele Goldberg’s lasting influence extends to her commitment to advancing technology and fostering educational initiatives in computer science.

Radia Perlman, born in 1951, is a distinguished computer scientist often referred to as the “Mother of the Internet” for her pioneering work in developing the spanning-tree algorithm. This algorithm is a fundamental component in the operation of network bridges, allowing for the creation of robust and scalable computer networks. Perlman’s contributions have been instrumental in enhancing the stability and efficiency of Ethernet networks. Throughout her career, she has made significant advancements in network design and security, holding numerous patents and receiving prestigious awards for her innovative work. Radia Perlman’s impact on the field of computer networking has been profound, and her dedication to improving the reliability and performance of networked systems has left an indelible mark on the evolution of the internet.

Katherine Johnson (1918–2020) was a pioneering African-American mathematician whose groundbreaking work at NASA played a crucial role in the success of early space missions, including the historic Apollo 11 moon landing. Born in West Virginia, Johnson joined NASA’s predecessor, the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), in 1953. She became known for her exceptional mathematical abilities and precise calculations, particularly in trajectory analysis for space flights. Johnson’s work was instrumental in ensuring the success of pivotal missions, such as John Glenn’s orbital flight in 1962. Her contributions extended beyond the space program, influencing policies that promoted diversity and equal opportunities for women and minorities at NASA. Johnson’s remarkable career was highlighted in the book and film “Hidden Figures,” bringing well-deserved recognition to her and her fellow trailblazing colleagues. Katherine Johnson’s legacy continues to inspire generations to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Elizabeth “Jake” Feinler is an American computer scientist known for her pioneering work in the development and management of the ARPANET (Advanced Research Projects Agency Network), the precursor to the modern internet. Born in 1931, Feinler played a crucial role as the principal investigator for the Network Information Center (NIC) at the Stanford Research Institute (SRI) from 1972 to 1989. She oversaw the creation of the ARPANET Directory, which later became the Domain Name System (DNS). Feinler’s efforts were instrumental in organizing and categorizing online resources, laying the groundwork for the internet we know today. Her work at the NIC was pivotal in shaping the early structure of the internet and facilitating information retrieval. Elizabeth Feinler’s contributions have had a lasting impact on the development and organization of the global information network.