1) She was ambitious in the face of great adversity

Born in 1921 in the US, Mary Jackson lived through a period of racial segretation, and as a result, faced continued discrimination throughout her entire career.

She was regularly denied promotions and professional development opportunities; she even had to request special permission to join a training program with white students.

But she persevered.

Fighting against the barriers of discrimination and biases, she went on to become NASA's first ever African American female engineer in 1958.

2) She paved the way for others

Despite the adversity she herself faced, she dedicated her time and efforts to pave the way for others, striving to make improvements for them right up until her retirement.

For example, she led D&I initiatives at NASA to drive forward career opportunities for female mathematicians, engineers and scientists, she was a Girl Scout Troop leader for over 30 years, and was also a member of the National Technical Association (the oldest African American technical organization in the US).

3) She left behind a long and lasting legacy

She passed away in 2005 at the age of 83, but her legacy lives on in a number of ways.

Her inspirational story has been recounted in the book and film adaptation 'Hidden Figures' (2016).

In 2021, NASA renamed it's DC headquarters in her honour, and in 2019, she was “posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal” - an accolade considered to be US Congress’ “highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions by individuals or institutions”. (Source: CNN and Wikipedia)

And she continues to be an inspiration to so many people to this day.

For more info on this incredible woman, check out:

• Black workers at NASA reflect on Mary Jackson’s legacy — and what must come next - Digital Trends

• In the Midst of Segregation, She Persevered | Remembering Mary W. Jackson on her 100th Birthday - NASA YouTube

• NASA's real 'Hidden Figures' - Space