The inspiring women who changed technology

March is a reminder that we need to pause and celebrate women who pioneer innovation and contribute tremendously to society. This recognition should not only occur for one month, but it needs to happen every month. Let’s take a moment to acknowledge and learn about the women of the past and present who continue to make our services imaginable at Indigo Slate.

The first computer programmer.1, 2, 3

A mathematician genius in the mid-1800s. Ada handwrote the first machine algorithm for the general-purpose computer. This contribution made it possible to manufacture the computers we use today, so many call her the world’s first computer programmer. To commemorate her accomplishments, the programming language, Ada, was named after her.

The first person to use a personal computer within a home.1, 3

A renowned computer programmer and logic designer. Wilkes began her career by closely working with the earliest versions of computers such as the IBM 709 and IBM 704. Later, in 1961, she advanced her presence in the technological world by joining a digital computer group. This is where Wilkes started designing software and writing operator’s manuals for one of the earliest interactive computers, called the LINC.

Developed code that was essential to researching energy-conversion systems and alternative power technologies.1, 2, 3

A talented computer scientist, mathematician, and social justice leader. Easley is known for developing code and completing computations at NASA. Her work in energy conversion was essential in supporting space projects (such as Centaur) and inventing hybrid energy technology.

Protecting families online.1

A passionate security consultant and ethical hacker. Brown wants to make the digital world a safer place for everyone. To accomplish this, she created Digital Mom Talk, a company that provides cybersecurity resources and services.

Discovered the computer bug in 1947.1, 2, 3

A computer programmer, mathematician, and U.S. Navy rear admiral. Hopper designed several computer programs, processes, and languages. This includes, but is not limited to, a data processing complier that translated instructions into code (COBOL) and a standardized U.S. Navy computer language. Hopper’s efforts did not go unrecognized, as she was awarded the Presidential Media of Freedom by Barack Obama in 2016.

Prepared manual calculations, trajectory analyses, and lift-off signals for the first U.S. space flight.1, 2, 3

A progressive leader and mathematician. Johnson broke headlines as she sent the first man to the moon and beat out U.S. space competitors. Not only was she a critical part of NASA, but she also co-authored several research reports that provided evolutionary mathematic equations. To recognize her achievements, Johnson was awarded the Presidential Media of Freedom by Barack Obama in 2015.

Established the domain extensions such as .com, .edu, and .gov.1, 3

The director of the Network Information Center (NIC) between 1972 to 1989. Feinler piloted the directory center responsible for maintaining web addresses and creating the domain naming system used to browse the internet.

Giving professional opportunities to underserved communities.1

A passionate social advocate and leader. Oniwinde founded the Black Young Professional (BYP) Network, a platform dedicated to connecting Black leaders to each other, resources, and events. Since its creation, Oniwinde has partnered with many companies to drive positive change and diversify talent acquisition pipelines.