Introduction

Gladys West is a name that you may not have heard of, but her contributions to the world are something that you have undoubtedly used. Dr. West is one of the hidden figures whose work revolutionized the world of technology. Her achievements in mathematics and engineering played a key role in the development of the Global Positioning System (GPS), a technology that has changed the way we navigate our world. In this article, we’ll explore the inspiring story of Dr. Gladys West, a brilliant mind who overcame adversity and discrimination to make her mark on history.

Who is Glady’s West?

Gladys West is a mathematician and computer programmer who played a crucial role in the development of the Global Positioning System (GPS). She was born on October 27, 1930, in Sutherland, Virginia, and grew up in a farming community where education was highly valued. After graduating from high school, she went on to attend Virginia State College (now Virginia State University), where she earned a degree in mathematics in 1952.

Dr. Gladys West Today

West began her career as a math teacher before joining the Naval Surface Warfare Center in Dahlgren, Virginia, in 1956. There, she worked as a programmer in the Naval Weapons Laboratory and quickly distinguished herself as a skilled mathematician. In the early 1960s, Dr. West was assigned to an all-male team working on the development of the GPS, a new technology that was being developed for military purposes.

Dr. Gladys West Younger Years

West’s work on the project involved analyzing and interpreting data from satellites to create accurate models of the Earth’s shape, a critical component of the GPS. Her work was instrumental in the development of the GPS and helped solve one of the biggest navigation problems of the 20th century.

Despite facing discrimination and adversity as a Black woman in a male-dominated field, Dr. West persevered and continued to make significant contributions to the field of mathematics and engineering. Throughout her career, she authored numerous scientific papers and was awarded a commendation from the Navy for her groundbreaking work on GPS.

Awards and Recognitions

Here is a list of some of the awards and recognitions received by Dr. Gladys West:

Air Force Space and Missile Pioneers Hall of Fame induction, 2018: Dr. West was inducted into the Air Force Space and Missile Pioneers Hall of Fame in recognition of her contributions to the development of the Global Positioning System (GPS). The Air Force Space and Missile Pioneers Hall of Fame honors individuals who has made significant contributions to the field of space technology.

United States Navy’s Science Hall of Fame induction, 2018: Dr. West was inducted into the United States Navy’s Science Hall of Fame in recognition of her work on the GPS and her contributions to the field of mathematics and engineering. The Navy’s Science Hall of Fame honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of science and technology.

GPS World’s Leadership in GPS Technology Hall of Fame, 2018: Dr. West was inducted into GPS World’s Leadership in GPS Technology Hall of Fame in recognition of her work on the GPS and her contributions to the field of GPS technology. GPS World is a leading publication in the field of GPS technology.

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated’s 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award: Dr. West was honored with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated’s Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her groundbreaking contributions to the field of mathematics and engineering.

Virginia Tech’s 2018 Black Alumni Trailblazer Award: Dr. West was honored with Virginia Tech’s Black Alumni Trailblazer Award in recognition of her pioneering work in the field of GPS technology and her contributions to the field of STEM.

2018 History Makers Award: Dr. West was recognized with the 2018 History Makers Award for her groundbreaking work on the GPS and her contributions to the field of mathematics and engineering.

2020 Virginia Women in History inductee: Dr. West was inducted into the Virginia Women in History program in recognition of her pioneering work on the GPS and her contributions to the field of STEM.

Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Virginia State University, 2018: Dr. West was awarded an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Virginia State University in recognition of her pioneering work on the GPS and her contributions to the field of STEM.

Today

Today, Dr. West’s work on the GPS has had a profound impact on our daily lives, from guiding us on our daily commutes to helping emergency responders navigate through challenging terrain. Her contributions to the field of mathematics and engineering have paved the way for future generations of women and people of color to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

Thoughts

Gladys West’s remarkable story and contributions to the fields of mathematics, engineering, and technology continue to inspire and pave the way for future generations. Her groundbreaking work on the Global Positioning System (GPS) has played an integral role in modern navigation and has revolutionized the way we live and work today. Dr. West’s numerous awards and recognitions are a testament to her exceptional accomplishments and her legacy as a pioneer in STEM fields. Her dedication, perseverance, and passion for discovery have truly made her an icon in the world of science and technology.