Inspirational Women:

Paving the Way for Future Generations

Discover your female role model by taking this QUIZ.

About

In 1960, the proportion of women in computing and mathematical professions was 27 percent. It reached 35 percent in 1990. But, in the government’s published figures, that was the peak. The numbers fell after that, and continue to fall, with the latest figures showing that women make up less than a third of the world’s workforce in technology-related fields, holding just 28% of all jobs in computer and mathematical occupations.

We welcome you to Follow her Footsteps, a page dedicated to celebrating and promoting the achievements of women in technology and sciences. Throughout history, many women have made significant contributions to these fields, yet their stories often go untold. From researchers like Chien Shiung Wu, astronomers like Maria Mitchell, and computer scientists like Grace Hopper, these women have paved the way for future generations. Join us as we explore some of these amazing stories and work towards a more inclusive future in technology and sciences.

Meet your Role Models

Picture of Ada Lovelace

Ada Lovelace

Augusta Ada King-Noel, Countess of Lovelace, was an English mathematician and writer, and is often considered to be the first computer programmer! Lovelace was the first to recognise the full potential of a 'computing machine', suggesting it had applications beyond pure calculations.

Read More

Annie Easley

Annie Easley developed and implemented code used in researching energy-conversion systems, analyzing alternative power technology—including the battery technology that was used for early hybrid vehicles, as well as for the NASA Centaur upper-stage rocket.

Read More

Hedy Lemarr

Hedy Lemarr is the inventor of the system of communication that allows wireless technology to function today. Lamarr’s famed beauty inspired female caricatures like Catwoman and Walt Disney’s Snow White. Close friends called her a genius, but the world refused to acknowledge anything other than her beauty.

Read More

Mary Wilkes

Mary Wilkes was the first person to design and work on a computer privately at home in 1965 and is regarded as the first home computer user. She is remembered for developing the assembler-linker model used in modern programming compilers.

Read More

Nikki Durkin

From boss of a million-dollar on-line clothing company at 22 to a recluse living with her parents a year later: How tech 'wonder kid' Nikki Durkin lost it all... but then got back up again and is now teaching computer coding to kids.

Read More

Susan Wojcicki

Susan Wojcicki worked as Google's first marketing manager in 1999, and later led the company's online advertising business and original video service. After observing the success of YouTube, she suggested that Google should buy it; the deal was approved for $1.65 billion in 2006. Susan was then appointed CEO of YouTube in 2014.

Read More