This Black History Month we’re celebrating a different Black History Month STEM leaders each day. I’ve chosen 35 incredible Black men and women whose contributions have been so significant, we couldn’t imagine our current world without them.
From Katherine Johnson’s pivotal calculations that sent astronauts to space, to Dr. Kizzamekia Corbett’s development of COVID-19 vaccine, the resilience, and brilliance of Black minds have pushed humanity forward.
Black History Month is so incredibly important to me because it gives Black Americans the opportunity to shine and for an entire month our rich and diverse history is on full display for the country. Despite being excluded from opportunities and facing discrimination, Black History Month STEM leaders have persisted, creating solutions and advancing knowledge for the betterment of all.
Here are the 35 Black History Month STEM leaders you should know:
1. Wanda Austin
Aerospace engineer and former CEO of The Aerospace Corporation
Aerospace engineer and former CEO of The Aerospace Corporation, Austin broke barriers in a male-dominated field. Her leadership shows the importance of perseverance and representation in STEM. Wanda Austin is also the first woman and African-American to lead the University of South Carolina.
2. Benjamin Banneker
Mathematician and astronomer
Banneaker was born a free African-American, but faced harsh prejudices and inequalities which came to be common practices to African-Americans in the United States. Banneker received a formal education which was incredibly uncommon for an African -American and despite racial injustices and socioeconomic systems set up to favor whites, Banneaker went on to accomplish several milestones would seem impossible for any Black person at that time to achieve. In fact, President George Washington and Secretary of State Thomas Jefferson stated that African-Americans were inferior to whites, while publications about Bannekers work in the Federal City praised his ability stating he “clearly proves that Mr. Jefferson’s concluding that race of men were void of mental endowments, was without foundation” (The White House). These incredible achievements include:
- Creating an almanac for farmers, Benjamin Banneker’s Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland and Virginia Almanack and Ephemeris, for the Year of Our Lord 1792 (Library of Congress)
- Assisting with surveying and construction of the new Federal City, White House, and Capitol Building
- Advocating that Black people were just as capable as whites
- Prove that free Black people would allow them to prove their abilities are the same as whites
He used his intellect and passion for STEM to conquer racial stereotypes, demonstrate resilience, and abolish the nation’s racial qualifiers needed for success.
3. Patricia Bath
Inventor of laser cataract surgery
An ophthalmologist and inventor, Bath developed laser cataract surgery, overcoming gender and racial discrimination in medicine. Her work emphasizes the value of innovation and fighting for inclusion in healthcare.
4. David Blackwell
Mathematician and statistician, first Black-tenured professor at UC Berkeley
A mathematician and the first Black tenured professor at UC Berkeley, Blackwell excelled despite racial barriers in academia. His journey highlights the importance of excellence and persistence in education. He is known as one of the most influential figures in statistics.
5. Guion Bluford
First Black astronaut in space
The first Black astronaut in space, Bluford faced racial prejudice but excelled as an aerospace engineer and Air Force officer. His achievements inspire breaking barriers and pursuing ambitious dreams.
6. Otis Boykin
Inventor of the improved electrical resistor
An engineer and inventor, Boykin improved electrical resistors, making devices like pacemakers more reliable. Despite systemic racism, his dedication to innovation teaches perseverance in the face of adversity.
7. Marie Van Brittan Brown
Inventor of the first home security system
A nurse and inventor, Brown created the first home security system in response to rising crime. Her ingenuity highlights the importance of addressing community issues through technology.
8. Kimberly Bryant
Founder of Black Girls CODE
Founder of Black Girls CODE, Bryant champions diversity in tech by empowering young Black girls to learn programming. Her work teaches the importance of mentorship and opening doors for future generations.
9. George Washington Carver
Agricultural scientist and inventor
An agricultural scientist, Carver promoted crop rotation and invented peanut-based products. Born into slavery, his life reflects the power of education and innovation in overcoming poverty.
10. Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett’s
Developed COVID-19 vaccine
An immunologist and lead scientist in the development of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine, Dr. Corbett played a crucial role in the global pandemic response. As a Black woman in a high-profile scientific role, she faced challenges navigating racial and gender biases in the medical field. Her work highlights the importance of representation in healthcare and inspires young scientists to pursue careers in immunology and public health. Dr. Corbett’s contributions remind us that diversity in research leads to groundbreaking advancements that benefit humanity.
11. Mark Dean
Inventor of the personal computer and color PC monitor
A computer engineer, Dean co-invented the personal computer and holds multiple patents. Often overlooked, his contributions highlight the need to recognize Black innovators in technology.
12. Marie Maynard Daly
First Black woman to earn a PhD in chemistry in the U.S.
The first Black woman to earn a PhD in chemistry in the U.S., Daly conducted vital research on hypertension. Her journey shows the importance of determination and education in science.
13. Charles Drew
Pioneer of blood plasma storage
A pioneer in blood plasma storage, Drew’s innovations saved countless lives during WWII. Despite facing racial segregation, his legacy underscores the importance of advocating for equity in healthcare.
14. Annie Easley
NASA mathematician and computer scientist
A NASA mathematician and computer scientist, Easley contributed to space programs despite being discriminated against. Her story highlights the value of perseverance and adaptability in STEM.
15. Clarence “Skip” Ellis
First African American to earn a PhD in computer science
The first African American to earn a PhD in computer science, Ellis made advances in computing but faced isolation in academia. His success teaches the importance of breaking ground for others.
16. Aprille Ericsson-Jackson
Aerospace engineer at NASA
A NASA aerospace engineer, Ericsson-Jackson broke barriers by being the first Black woman to earn a PhD in mechanical engineering from Howard. She exemplifies the power of persistence and passion for space exploration.
17. Lisa Gelobter
Computer scientist who helped develop GIF technology
A computer scientist, Gelobter helped develop GIF technology. She navigated a male-dominated field, showing the impact of creativity and tech innovation.
18. Frank Greene
Pioneering Silicon Valley technologist
One of the first Black technologists in Silicon Valley, Greene created faster computer memory systems. His career highlights the importance of trailblazers in technology.
19. Shirley Anne Jackson
Physicist and telecommunications pioneer
A physicist and telecommunications pioneer, Jackson was the first Black woman to earn a PhD from MIT. Her contributions show how science can drive societal advancement.
20. Mae Jemison
First Black woman astronaut in space
The first Black woman in space, Jemison also practiced medicine and championed STEM education. She inspires young people to dream big and pursue diverse interests.
21. Katherine Johnson
NASA mathematician who helped with early space missions
A NASA mathematician, Johnson’s calculations were critical to early space missions. Despite racial and gender discrimination, her accuracy and brilliance helped shape history.
22. Erika Johnson
Engineer and satellite technology innovator at NASA
An engineer and innovator at NASA, Johnson advanced satellite technology, showcasing the importance of Black women in space exploration.
23. Lonnie Johnson
NASA engineer and inventor of the Super Soaker
An engineer and inventor, Johnson created the Super Soaker and contributed to NASA projects. His perseverance shows the value of curiosity and creativity.
24. Percy Lavon Julian
Chemist and pioneer in chemical synthesis
A chemist who synthesized medical drugs, Julian faced numerous obstacles as a Black scientist. His achievements highlight the role of persistence in advancing medicine.
25. Robert Henry Lawrence Jr.
First Black astronaut selected by NASA
The first Black astronaut selected by NASA, Lawrence’s career was cut short by tragedy. His legacy reminds us of the sacrifices made to advance racial equality in space exploration.
26. Jerry Lawson
Engineer who developed the first video game cartridge system
An engineer, Lawson developed the first video game cartridge, shaping the gaming industry. His story emphasizes the importance of Black innovators in entertainment technology.
27. Lewis Latimer
Engineer who improved the light bulb and telephone
An engineer, Latimer improved light bulb and telephone technology, working alongside Edison and Bell. His story highlights the contributions of Black inventors to everyday life.
28. Elijah McCoy
Engineer known for the automatic lubricator for trains
An engineer known for his automatic lubricator, McCoy’s inventions enhanced train efficiency. The term “The Real McCoy” reflects his standard of excellence.
29. Garrett Morgan
Inventor of the traffic signal and gas mask
An inventor, Morgan developed the traffic signal and gas mask. His creations underscore the impact of Black inventors on public safety.
30. Norbert Rilliex
Chemical engineer and inventor of the sugar refining process
A chemical engineer, Rillieux revolutionized sugar refining. His success, despite societal racism, exemplifies innovation under pressure
31. Valerie Thomas
NASA physicist and inventor of 3D imaging technology
A NASA physicist, Thomas invented 3D imaging technology. Her work teaches the importance of Black women’s contributions to space science.
32. Charles Henry Turner
Zoologist and pioneer in animal behavior studies
A zoologist, Turner was the first to prove insects can learn. His studies of animal behavior encourage curiosity and scientific exploration.
33. Granville T. Woods
Inventor and electrical engineer with over 60 patents
An inventor and engineer, Woods held over 60 patents, enhancing railway systems. His life represents resilience in the face of systemic racism.
34. Arthur B.C. Walker Jr.
Astrophysicist and pioneer in solar physics research
An astrophysicist, Walker developed instruments to study the sun. His work inspires students to pursue space science.
35. Abe M. Zarem
Engineer and inventor in aerospace
An engineer in aerospace, Zarem’s inventions advanced missile technology. His career showcases the importance of innovation in national defense.
I hope you learned more about these 35 Black History Month STEM leaders you should know:
Let’s continue to amplify Black voices, advocate for equal representation, and create inclusive spaces where brilliance can thrive.
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