During World War II, a significant number of men were absent from their pre-war jobs, creating workforce shortages. This presented new opportunities for women to enter the workforce, including the engineering field. Join us as we introduce an incredible woman who broke barriers to become an engineer – Mary Golda Ross.
Mary Golda Ross was born on August 9, 1908, in Oklahoma. She was a proud member of the Cherokee tribe and had a notable ancestry. Her great-great-grandfather, Chief John Ross, fought against the forced removal of the Cherokee from their tribal lands by the federal government. Despite his efforts, he and other tribe members were subjected to the devastating Trail of Tears.
Initially, Mary pursued a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and later worked as a teacher. Following the Cherokee custom, she believed in providing equal educational opportunities for girls. In 1938, she obtained a master’s degree in mathematics.
A few years later, the United States became heavily involved in World War II. Mary Golda Ross was hired by the Lockheed Corporation, an aircraft manufacturing company. During the war, Lockheed played a crucial role in producing P-38 Lightning fighter planes. Ross and her colleagues focused on enhancing the planes’ stability at high speeds.
While many women left their jobs as men returned from the war, Ross remained at Lockheed, continuing to learn and grow. In 1949, she became the first documented Native American woman to be certified and registered as an engineer. Ross was selected as one of the 40 engineers for Lockheed’s Skunk Works Advanced Development Program, a secretive initiative. She was the sole woman and American Indian engineer on the team, and much of their work remains classified.
Throughout her college years, Ross had a keen interest in astronomy and extensively studied the stars. Her work at Lockheed significantly contributed to the United States’ advancements in the “space race,” involving rocket launches, exploration of other planets, and the development of missiles and satellites.
Lockheed recognized Ross’s pivotal role in designing the Agena rocket, which had multiple successful launches. This rocket played a crucial part in the development of the Apollo program, leading to the historic moon landing.
Mary Golda Ross was a trailblazer, excelling in a field dominated by men and making significant contributions to space exploration. Her achievements paved the way for other American Indians and women. Ross retired from Lockheed in 1973 and passed away on April 29, 2008, nearing the age of 100.
In 2019, the U.S. Mint honored Ross by featuring her on a one dollar coin as part of a series commemorating American Indians’ contributions to U.S. history and development. Ross attended the opening of the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, DC in 2004. Numerous books and articles celebrate her life and scientific contributions. Her spirit and aspiration to see more women and American Indians in STEM careers continue to inspire people.
Try It Out
Are you eager to learn more about space? Engage in these activities with a friend or family member.
- Are you passionate about math like Mary Golda Ross was? Just imagine the possibility of discovering a new method for interstellar travel or advancing current rocket designs. Write a few paragraphs about the invention you would like to create and share your ideas with a friend!
- Seek assistance from a trusted adult to explore the contributions of Mary Golda Ross and the Skunk Works to modern satellite, rocket, and missile technology. Create a drawing that illustrates what you have learned.
- Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to land on the moon and take a walk? Envision the experience and express your emotions through a poem.
References
- https://www.britannica.com/dictionary (accessed Day Mon., YEAR)
- https://www.nps.gov/people/mary-g-ross.htm (accessed 2 Nov., 2022)
- https://www.harpersbazaar.com/culture/features/a38985275/mary-golda-ross-profile/ (accessed 12 Nov., 2022)
- https://www.cherokeephoenix.org/education/mary-golda-ross-mathematician-engineer-and-inspiration/article_35dde35c-7b67-11eb-a57a-df1679a79491.html (accessed 12 Nov., 2022)
- https://www.americanindianmagazine.org/story/mary-golda-ross-she-reached-stars (accessed 12 Nov., 2022)
- https://airandspace.si.edu/stories/editorial/mary-g-ross-aerospace-engineer (accessed 12 Nov., 2022)
FAQ
1. Who was the first female engineer?
The first female engineer was Emily Warren Roebling. She was an American civil engineer and is best known for her contribution to the construction of the Brooklyn Bridge. After her husband, Washington Roebling, fell ill, Emily took over the role of chief engineer and oversaw the completion of the bridge. Her dedication and knowledge in engineering paved the way for future generations of women in the field.
2. Who was the first American Indian engineer?
Mary Golda Ross was the first known American Indian engineer. She was a Cherokee aerospace engineer and played a significant role in the development of space exploration. Ross worked on various projects at Lockheed Corporation, including the Agena rocket and the Polaris missile. Her contributions in the field of engineering have had a lasting impact and inspired many American Indians to pursue careers in STEM.
3. Was there a female American Indian engineer?
Yes, there have been female American Indian engineers. One notable example is Mary Golda Ross, a Cherokee aerospace engineer. She broke barriers in the field of engineering and made significant contributions to space exploration. Ross’s achievements serve as an inspiration for women, particularly American Indian women, to pursue careers in engineering and other STEM fields.
4. Are there any female American Indian engineers today?
Yes, there are female American Indian engineers today. The field of engineering has become more diverse and inclusive, and many American Indian women are pursuing careers in STEM. These women are making important contributions to various fields of engineering, from aerospace to civil engineering. Their achievements highlight the importance of diversity in the engineering profession and serve as role models for future generations.
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