Gladys West: The Hidden Figure Behind GPS
Gladys West, a mathematician, significantly contributed to GPS development during her 42-year career, receiving accolades for her work in geodesy and satellite data processing, inspiring future generations in STEM.
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Gladys West, a mathematician and computer programmer, played a crucial role in the development of the Global Positioning System (GPS) during her 42-year career at the U.S. Naval Proving Ground. As one of the few Black women in her field, West led a team that utilized satellite sensor data to calculate the Earth's shape and the orbital paths for GPS satellites. Her work, which included significant contributions to geodesy and satellite data processing, remained largely unrecognized for decades. However, she has since received numerous accolades, including induction into the U.S. Air Force Space and Missile Pioneers Hall of Fame and the 2024 IEEE President’s Award for her contributions to GPS technology.
Born in 1930 in Virginia, West excelled academically despite financial hardships and earned a full scholarship to Virginia State College, where she obtained a degree in mathematics. She began her career in 1956, initially solving complex mathematical problems manually before transitioning to computer programming. Her expertise allowed her to refine geodetic models that are essential for GPS functionality. West's legacy is marked by her perseverance in a male-dominated and racially segregated environment, inspiring future generations of women and minorities in STEM fields. Her story exemplifies the impact of dedication and skill, proving that the sky is not the limit but merely the beginning of possibilities.
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