To celebrate Black History Month, we’re spotlighting the accomplishments of Black people in the world of technology. From engineers, mathematicians, inventors, and entrepreneurs, we’ll be looking at tech leaders and pioneers of many different backgrounds. This week we’re talking about the notable accomplishments of Black people in the field of computers. Keep an eye out for next week’s post to learn more about the lasting impact of Black people throughout history.
Dean graduated at the top of his class with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering in 1979
Known as a prominent figure in computer science, Dr. Mark Dean began his career in technology while working at IBM in 1980. During his tenure at IBM, he spearheaded the development of the personal computer. He holds 3 of IBM’s original 9 patents for the PC.
In total, he holds 20 different patents. Dean made significant contributions to IBM’s research and development teams and was in charge of the team that created the 1-Gigahertz chip. He is the first Black person to be named an IBM fellow.
Clay wrote software in 1958 for the U.S. Department of Energy that demonstrated how particles of radiation would spread after a nuclear explosion
In the 1950s, Roy Clay Sr. was one of the first Black men to attend Saint Louis University. He worked as a computer consultant in Silicon Valley in the 1970s and took the lead in helping develop Hewlett-Packard Computer, more commonly known as HP, technology divisions.
Clay was the head of the team that launched HP into the computer industry. He is often referred to as the Godfather of Silicon Valley. Clay was inducted into the Silicone Valley Engineering Council’s Hall of Fame in 2003.
Gelobter was named one of Fast Company’s Most Creative People
Have you ever used a GIF online? We have Lisa Gelobter to thank for those! Gelobter is a computer scientist who is best known for helping to pioneer internet technology such as Shockwave. She played a major role in rise of online video and was a part of the senior management team of Hulu.
Her accomplishments don’t stop there. She has also worked at the White House in the U.S. Digital Service, served as the Chief Digital Service Officer for the Department of Education, and is the CEO and founder of tEQuitable, a platform that focuses on creating inclusive work environments.
We value our Contributors and want to shine a spotlight on what’s important to you! February is Black History Month and we’d like to know what it means to our Crowd.
Please take a moment to tell us how you celebrate Black History Month and you might see your submission featured in a blog post. Click here to send us your submission.
