Women’s History Month: Exploring Women’s Impact in Engineering

March 8, 2024

Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate the extraordinary accomplishments of women throughout the ages and their contributions in the STEM fields.

Cabe Atwell

Related To: Electronic Design

Grace Hopper, computer scientist, U.S. Navy Admiral

Grace Hopper, a computer scientist and a Rear Admiral in the U.S. Navy, was one of the first programmers of the Harvard Mark I electromechanical computers used during the tail end of WWII. She developed the first compiler for a programming language during that time, laying the foundation for modern software development.

She also played a key role in the development of the UNIVAC I, one of the earliest commercial computers. On top of that, Hopper’s work led to the development of the COBOL programming language, which became the de facto language for business applications.

Throughout her 42-year career, she advocated for the advancement of computer science education and the inclusion of women in STEM fields. In 2016, Hopper received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her remarkable contributions to the field of computer science.

When asked what her greatest accomplishment was during her career, Hopper stated, “The most important thing I've accomplished, other than building the compiler, is training young people. They come to me, you know, and say, ‘Do you think we can do this?’ I say, ‘Try it.’ And I back 'em up. They need that. I keep track of them as they get older, and I stir’em up at intervals so they don't forget to take chances.”

Slide 14 of 15

This gallery is part of the TechXchange: Workers in Science & Engineering (WISE).

With Women’s History Month upon us, we honor some of the contributions women engineers and scientists have made over the decades. Despite facing some systemic societal barriers and stereotypes, women engineers have made significant strides in the engineering fields, leaving their notable mark in the STEM space and paving the way for future generations.

From designing groundbreaking inventions to spearheading innovative projects, these trailblazing women have shattered expectations and challenged traditional norms. Their talents, resilience, and ingenuity are a lasting testament to their undeniable skill and character. It’s on that note that we highlight the accomplishments of some of the most extraordinary women in engineering and science history, along with their achievements and enduring impact on shaping the technological world of today.

About the Author

Cabe Atwell | Technology Editor, Electronic Design

Cabe is a Technology Editor for Electronic Design.

Engineer, Machinist, Maker, Writer. A graduate Electrical Engineer actively plying his expertise in the industry and at his company, Gunhead. When not designing/building, he creates a steady torrent of projects and content in the media world. Many of his projects and articles are online at element14 & SolidSmack, industry-focused work at EETimes & EDN, and offbeat articles at Make Magazine. Currently, you can find him hosting webinars and contributing to Electronic Design and Machine Design.

Cabe is an electrical engineer, design consultant and author with 25 years’ experience. His most recent book is “Essential 555 IC: Design, Configure, and Create Clever Circuits”

Cabe writes the Engineering on Friday blog on Electronic Design.