Black Tech Innovators Who Inspire

Celebrating Black History Month Discovering the brilliant minds behind today's technology Grade 7 Technology - Ms. Kenya Akins

Katherine Johnson: NASA's Hidden Figure

Brilliant mathematician at NASA Calculated flight paths for early space missions Her work helped astronauts reach the moon safely Known as a 'human computer' for her incredible accuracy

Mark Dean: Computer Pioneer

Lead engineer at IBM Co-invented the first personal computer Holds over 40 patents in computer technology Helped create the technology in computers we use today

Timeline of Black Tech Innovation

Quick Reflection Activity

Read the mini-biographies provided Write down 2 interesting facts about each innovator Answer: How did these innovators change technology? Share your thoughts with a partner

Think About This...

How do you think Katherine Johnson and Mark Dean changed the world of technology? What challenges might they have faced as Black innovators? How does their work impact the technology you use today?

Impact Then and Now

{"left":"Katherine Johnson's calculations enabled safe space travel and moon landings\nMark Dean's computer innovations made personal computers possible for everyone","right":"Their work opened doors for future generations of diverse tech leaders\nToday's smartphones, laptops, and space exploration build on their foundations"}

"I Can" Success Statements

I can identify important Black figures in technology I can explain how their work impacts technology today I can appreciate diversity in science and technology careers I am inspired to pursue my own innovative ideas