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10 Mind-Blowing Facts about Mary Jackson: NASA’s First Black Female Engineer

In the early days of the space race, a diverse group of brilliant minds worked tirelessly to make humanity’s dream of reaching the stars a reality. Among them was Mary Jackson, a remarkable woman who shattered barriers and became NASA’s first black female engineer. Her remarkable achievements, against the backdrop of rampant discrimination and inequality, epitomize the strength, brilliance, and tenacity of individuals who pave the way for progress.

Mary Jackson is widely recognized as a pioneer in the field of aerospace engineering. As the first Black female engineer at NASA, she overcame numerous obstacles and made significant contributions to the space agency’s mission. In this article, we will explore 10 mind-blowing facts about Mary Jackson, shedding light on her remarkable achievements and legacy.

1. Mary Jackson received exceptional education despite segregation

Mary Jackson achieved a significant milestone by graduating from Hampton Institute in 1942 with dual degrees in mathematics and physical science. Her educational background allowed her to make substantial contributions to the field of engineering and space exploration.

After graduating, Jackson began her career as a math and science teacher in Maryland. However, in 1951, she got the opportunity to work at the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), which later became NASA. Jackson started as a research mathematician at the West Area Computing Unit, where she performed complex calculations to support engineers working on various projects.

Jackson’s exceptional skills and determination led her to pursue an engineering position within NASA. However, there were significant barriers for women and minorities in this field during that era. Despite encountering obstacles, she persevered and fought for the opportunity to advance

2. Mary Jackson was a teacher

Mary Jackson had an exceptional teaching career that set the foundation for her groundbreaking work in the aerospace industry. Before her groundbreaking achievements at NASA, Jackson made a significant impact as an educator, inspiring and fostering the dreams of countless students.

Born on April 9, 1921, in Hampton, Virginia, Mary Jackson’s passion for education was evident from an early age. After graduating high school in 1939, she attended Hampton Institute (now known as Hampton University) and pursued her passion for mathematics and science. She graduated in 1942 with dual degrees in math and physical science, eager to contribute to her community and the world of education.

After college, Jackson began her teaching career at a segregated black school in Calvert County, Maryland. She taught mathematics and science to high school students, providing them with valuable knowledge and guidance. Although faced with the adversity of segregation, Jackson was determined to make a difference through education.

In 1951, Jackson moved back to Hampton, Virginia, and started teaching at the then racially segregated Hampton High School. Here, she continued to be a driving force of inspiration.

3. Mary Jackson stood out from the crowd

In 1951, Mary Jackson heard about an opening in the segregated computing unit at the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), which later became NASA. She applied and was hired, becoming one of only a handful of Black employees at the agency.

4. Mary Jackson was a human-computer

While working as a human computer, Mary Jackson’s supervisor recognized her exceptional talent and encouraged her to pursue an engineering career. In 1958, she became NASA’s first Black female engineer after completing advanced engineering training courses and successfully petitioning to attend classes previously restricted to white employees.

5. Mary Jackson specialized in Wind Tunnel Research

Jackson specialized in the field of aerospace engineering and focused her efforts on wind tunnel research. She conducted experiments to better understand the airflow around aircraft, helping to improve their design and performance.

6. Mary Jackson contributed to NASA’s Space Program

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Mary Jackson’s expertise was instrumental in advancing NASA’s space program. She worked on various projects, including the Supersonic Pressure Tunnel and the Apollo program. Her work involved analyzing data, solving complex engineering problems, and contributing to the development of innovative technologies.

7. Mary Jackson had an Award-Winning Career

Throughout her career, Jackson received numerous accolades and recognition for her outstanding contributions. In 1972, she was awarded the Equal Opportunity Specialist Career Achievement Award for her work in promoting the advancement of women and minorities in the engineering field.

8. Mary Jackson advocated for Diversity and Inclusion

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As a trailblazer and advocate for equality, Mary Jackson actively sought opportunities to promote diversity and inclusion in the workplace. She worked tirelessly to break down barriers and open doors for women and minority engineers at NASA. Jackson served as the program manager of the Federal Women’s Program, working to address the gender imbalance and promote equal opportunities for women in the sciences.

9. Mary Jackson’s retirement and later years

After working at NASA for over three decades, Mary Jackson retired in 1985. However, her passion for education and advocacy did not diminish. She continued to inspire and mentor young students, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds. Jackson also served on various advisory committees and remained an influential voice in promoting diversity in STEM fields.

10. Mary Jackson’s legacy and recognition

Mary Jackson’s groundbreaking accomplishments have left an indelible mark on the field of aerospace engineering and the history of NASA. Her story gained widespread recognition following the release of the book “Hidden Figures” by Margot Lee Shetterly in 2016, which highlighted the contributions of African-American women mathematicians at NASA. The book was later adapted into a critically acclaimed film.

In 2019, NASA honored Jackson’s legacy by renaming its headquarters building in Washington, D.C. as the “Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters.” This recognition serves as a testament to her pioneering spirit and enduring impact on the agency.

Mary Jackson’s determination, resilience, and intellectual brilliance continue to inspire future generations of scientists and engineers. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and equality paved the way for countless women and minorities to pursue careers in STEM. Through her groundbreaking achievements, she shattered barriers and proved that talent knows no boundaries. Mary Jackson’s legacy serves as a reminder that diversity and inclusion are not only crucial for scientific progress but also fundamental for a more equitable and just society.