A Short History of Trailblazing Women in STEM

The 18th century was the time when women’s contribution in technology and science were not recognized. Yet, there are some exceptional women that despite societal barriers, made extraordinary contributions. One of them is Ada Lovelace, who is considered by many as the first computer programmer in the history of mankind.

Ada Lovelace was born 1815 and was a mathematician and writer. She worked on Charles Babbage's early mechanical general-purpose computer, called Analytical Engine. She figured out that it could be programmed for complex calculations and wrote the first algorithm for it. With this, she wrote the first algorithm intended specifically for implementation in a machine. Her insight made her a pioneer, paving the way for women in technology.

In the 1800s, more women took to science and tech than ever before. One standout is Marie Curie, a physicist and chemist who discovered radioactivity. 

Marie Curie, born 1867, is the first female Nobel Prize winner and has been awarded in two different scientific fields, physics and chemistry. Her research on radioactive substances not only advanced our knowledge but also laid the groundwork for future studies in nuclear physics and medicine. Marie Curie’s perseverance and many achievements challenged the gender norms of her time and inspired countless women to pursue careers in science and technology.

The twentieth century marked significant advances for women working their way into tech space especially throughout World War II and afterward. One of the most influential figures was Grace Hopper. 

Grace Hopper, born 1906, was a United States Navy Rear Admiral as well as a computer scientist. She developed many programming languages including COBOL, which became one of the earliest high-level programming languages utilized on computers worldwide. She made programming easier and more accessible. In this regard, Grace Hopper changed things completely about programming. She continues to be honored today with prizes like the annual Grace Hopper Celebration of Women in Computing.

Women in technology are making enormous strides, breaking down barriers and leading innovation into the future. Today, there have emerged several influential women driving the future of tech. 

One of those is Sheryl Sandberg who is Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Facebook. Born in 1969, she played a critical role in promoting growth and expansion at Facebook. She also encourages women to engage themselves more into leadership positions through her bestselling book “Lean In”.

Also notable is Yahoo’s former CEO Marissa Mayer who was one of Google’s first female engineers. Marissa born 1975 made significant contributions to Google’s user interface and product design. It was during her tenure at Yahoo that she became one of the most impactful women in the technology space. 

Reshma Saujani and Kimberly Bryant are two inspiring role models who are shaping the minds of the next generation of girls in technology. They are the creators of Girls Who Code and Black Girls Code, two organizations dedicated to closing the gender gap in technology. 

Saujani's organization Girls Who Code has expanded from a tiny after-school program to a global movement of over 40,000 individuals who teach and encourage young girls from marginalized backgrounds. Bryant's organization Black Girls Code has also made considerable progress, providing coding courses and mentorship programs nationwide. Saujani and Bryant's diligent efforts not only increase diversity in the tech business, but also encourage young girls to gain the skills and confidence required to excel in tech careers. By sharing their own experiences as women in technology, Saujani and Bryant are motivating a new generation of young women to follow in their footsteps and forever transform the face of the business.