Let me introduce you to the incredible Mary Jackson, a true trailblazer in the world of aerospace engineering! Mary Jackson was the first African American female engineer at NASA, and her journey is nothing short of inspiring.

Mary graduated with top marks from high school and earned bachelor's degrees in mathematics and physical science from Hampton Institute. She started her career at National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) as a "computer" in the West Area Computing unit, where she did complex calculations by hand.

After two years, Mary was encouraged to enter a training program that would allow her to become an engineer. There was just one problem: the classes she needed to take were at a segregated high school. But Mary didn't let that stop her! She petitioned the City of Hampton to let her attend classes alongside her white peers, and she won!

With her hard work and determination, Mary Jackson not only became an engineer but also had an amazing career at NASA. She authored or co-authored 12 technical papers and worked tirelessly to improve opportunities for minorities and women in engineering and science. Her efforts have opened doors for so many who followed in her footsteps.

Mary Jackson's story shows us that with perseverance and courage, we can overcome any obstacle and achieve greatness.