In the 21st century, we as a society talk a lot about women in technology and the efforts to bridge the gender gap. Though much of the work done today is groundbreaking, we must remember to look back in the past and honor those who have fought for women in technology. Brought to you by Women in Tech and IT, here are three historical women who pioneered the fight for women in technology.
Ada Lovelace
Dubbed as the first programmer, Ada Lovelace was born in 1815 and died in 1852. Born in London, her mother insisted she was taught science and mathematics. In her later years, she wrote notes that explained how notions of a specific engine could translate calculations to computation. Because of her achievements, the second Tuesday in October is known as Ada Lovelace Day to celebrate her lifelong devotion to women in STEM.
Annie Easley
Annie Easley was born in 1933 and died in 2011. She attended Xavier University where she majored in pharmaceutical studies. Though her degree was in medical sciences, she became a member of the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics becoming just one of four American Americans who worked there. She and others are known for the development and implementation of the code which led to the development of batteries used in hybrid and electric automobiles.
Elizabeth Feinler
Born in 1931 in West Virginia, Feinler fell in love with data compilations when working towards her Ph.D. In 1972 she became the director of the network information systems center at the Stanford Research Institute. The information center was like a “prehistorical google” and by 1980 her work helped lay down the foundations for the modern internet. Feinler is known for her work at the Stanford Research Institute and you can thank her for domain names like .com, .org, and .gov.