Computer science and programming have been shaped by the contributions of great minds throughout history. Although the most recognized names in this field are often male, many women have left an indelible mark on the evolution of technology. Without their contributions, computer science as we know it today would be very different.
To mark the World Women's DayWe want to highlight some of the women who have marked a turning point in the history of computing.
Pioneers in computing and programming
Grace Murray Hopper – The mother of computer programming
Grace Hopper was an American computer scientist and military officer, a pioneer in her field. She was the first programmer to use the Mark I, one of the first electromechanical computers in history.
Creator of Common Business-Oriented Language (COBOL), laid the foundations of modern programming, allowing computers to process data in natural language instead of just binary code.
"If it's a good idea, go ahead and do it. It's much easier to apologize than to get the necessary permission." – Grace Murray Hopper.
Ada Lovelace – The first programmer in history
Ada Lovelace was a British mathematician and writer, renowned for having developed the first algorithm for a computational machine, which makes her the first programmer in history.
He worked with Charles Babbage in the Analytical MachineA project that laid the foundations for modern computing. His vision of computers went far beyond numerical calculation, proposing the idea that they could generate music or graphics, anticipating the concept of software.
"Mathematical science is the language of the invisible relationships between things." – Ada Lovelace.
Hedy Lamarr – The pioneer of WiFi and Bluetooth
Beyond her acting career, Hedy Lamarr was a technological innovator. Together with engineer George Antheil, she patented a system of spread spectrum communications, technology that is fundamental to the development of today WiFi, Bluetooth and GPS.
"Hope and curiosity about the future seemed better to me than the certainty of the present." – Hedy Lamarr.
Innovators and advocates of technological advancement
Jude Milhon – Hacktivist and internet privacy advocate
Jude Milhon was a hacker and activist who championed free access to technology and the right to privacy online. She coined the term cyberpunk and promoted the participation of women in programming.
"I believe technology will solve all our problems, personal or scientific." – Jude Milhon.
Evelyn Berezin – The mother of word processors
Evelyn Berezin designed and developed the first word processorrevolutionizing the way documents are edited. He also created the first computerized airline reservation system.
His work was key in the evolution of computer science applied to business management.
Lynn Conwaand – Pioneer in microelectronics
Lynn Conway is a computer engineer who revolutionized the design of microelectronic chips and co-author of the book «Introduction to VLSI systems«, a standard in the technology industry.
His work in Xerox-PARC In the 70s it had a lasting impact on the evolution of modern processors.
Ángela Ruiz Robles – The pioneer of the electronic book
In 1949, the Spanish inventor Ángela Ruiz Robles designed the first version of a ebook, an interactive mechanical device that foreshadowed what we know today as e-readers.
Stephanie "Steve" Shirley – Entrepreneur and promoter of female talent in technology
Stephanie Shirley founded the software company in 1962 Freelance Programmers Ltd, with a team made up mostly of female programmers, at a time when the technology industry was almost exclusively male.
"I set up my software company in my living room and decided to hire mostly women." – Stephanie Shirley.
The women behind major advances in software and hardware
Margaret Hamilton – The Apollo 11 Software Engineer
Margaret Hamilton led the development of Apollo 11 navigation software, allowing the first man to land on the Moon.
"Don't be afraid to make mistakes; those who know how to fail spectacularly are the ones who can achieve great things." – Margaret Hamilton.
Mary Allen Wilkes – The first person to work with a personal computer
Mary Allen Wilkes was a programmer and hardware engineer. She was a pioneer in the development of the first personal computer In 1961, using a LINC computer at home, he became the first person to working remotely with a personal computer.
"I wanted to do something interesting, something challenging." – Mary Allen Wilkes.
The legacy of these women has been fundamental to the development of computer science and programming. Their impact continues to be felt today, in every software program we use, in every line of code, and in every technological advancement that makes our lives easier. It is important to continue recognizing their work and to encourage more women to participate in the world of technology. The history of computing is incomplete without them, and their example continues to inspire future generations.
Original article by Javier González. | December 11, 2020 published in Afi Global Education
