Mary Jackson

Mary Jackson was an American mathematician and aerospace engineer. She was born in Hampton, Virginia, in 1921. She became NASA's first Black female engineer. Her story was told in the movie and book Hidden Figures.

Early Life

Jackson graduated from a segregated high school at the top of her class. She earned degrees in math and physical science from Hampton Institute. She worked as a teacher and a secretary before joining the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics, which later became NASA.

NASA Career

Jackson started as a human computer, doing math calculations by hand. She had to get special permission to attend engineering classes at an all-white school. She became NASA's first Black female engineer in 1958. She later worked to help other women and minorities advance at NASA.

Fun Facts

• Mary Jackson had to petition the city of Hampton to be allowed to attend engineering courses at a white-only school.
• NASA renamed its headquarters in Washington, D.C., after Mary Jackson in 2020.
• Her story was featured in the book and movie Hidden Figures.

Did You Know?

Mary Jackson eventually left her engineering job to become NASA's Federal Women's Program Manager. She wanted to help other women and minorities get better opportunities at NASA.