Mary Winston Jackson: The Pioneering Mathematician Who Changed NASA

Mary Winston Jackson was not just a mathematician; she was a trailblazer who broke barriers during a time when racial segregation was rampant. Her contributions laid the groundwork for future generations of women and minorities aspiring to work in STEM fields. In this article, we will explore her life, accomplishments, and the legacy she left behind, as well as the impact of the film Hidden Figures on her story.

Who Was Mary Jackson?

Mathematician Mary Winston Jackson excelled academically in a time of racial segregation. Her math and science skills earned her a position as a "human computer" for NACA, which later became NASA. Along with serving a vital role in the development of the space program, she helped other women and minorities advance their careers. Jackson passed away in February 2005 at the age of 83. The story of her groundbreaking contributions to NASA was later dramatized in the 2016 film Hidden Figures.

Early Years

Mary Winston Jackson was born on April 9, 1921, in Hampton, Virginia, to Ella and Frank Winston. She attended Hampton’s all-Black schools and graduated with high honors from George P. Phenix Training School in 1937. Five years later, she earned dual bachelor’s degrees in mathematics and physical science from Hampton Institute, laying a strong foundation for her future career.

Taking her Talents to Work

After college, Jackson took on various jobs, including teacher, bookkeeper, and receptionist. In 1951, she found employment at the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) in Langley, Virginia. Here, she worked as a research mathematician, known as a "human computer." By 1953, she was moved to the Compressibility Research Division of NACA, where her expertise grew.

Working through Segregation

Despite President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Executive Order 8802 prohibiting discrimination in the defense industry, Virginia state law still enforced segregation in the workplace. All facilities had separate restrooms and cafeterias designated “white” or “colored.” In the company cafeteria, whites could select their food and sit in a lunchroom, while Black employees had to make food requests to a cafeteria attendant.

NASA's First Black Female Engineer

After months of enduring “separate and unequal” accommodations, Jackson considered resigning from her position. However, a chance encounter with a supervisor changed her mind. After hearing her complaints, he invited her to work for him and encouraged her to take engineering classes. This support led to her promotion as NASA's first Black female engineer, where she developed expertise in wind tunnels and aircraft flight experiments.

Giving Back by Helping Others

In 1978, Jackson transitioned to human resources, serving as the Federal Women’s Program Manager and Affirmative Action Program Manager. During her time in these roles, she helped other women and minorities advance their careers by advising them to pursue additional studies and courses for promotion opportunities. Her mentorship significantly impacted the lives of many aspiring engineers.

Death and 'Hidden Figures' Legacy

Throughout her career, Jackson was actively involved in various organizations, including the Girl Scouts of America, earning recognition for her leadership and community service. She passed away at age 83 on February 11, 2005, at Riverside Convalescent Home in Hampton, Virginia. In 2016, her story, along with those of her NASA colleagues Katherine G. Johnson and Dorothy Johnson Vaughan, was brought to the big screen in Hidden Figures, with Janelle Monáe portraying Jackson.

In 2018, it was announced that a school in Salt Lake City, Utah, would be renamed Mary W. Jackson Elementary School in her honor. Additionally, in June 2020, NASA renamed its DC headquarters to The Mary W. Jackson NASA Headquarters, ensuring her legacy continues to inspire future generations.

Key Takeaways

• Mary Jackson was the first Black female engineer at NASA, breaking barriers in a male-dominated field.
• She played a crucial role in the development of the U.S. space program and supported other women and minorities in their careers.
• Jackson's story emphasizes the importance of education and mentorship for underrepresented groups in STEM.
• The film Hidden Figures highlights her contributions, bringing her legacy to a broader audience.