Lillian Moller Gilbreth was born on May 24, 1878, in Oakland, California. She grew up in a large, bustling household and was exposed to the complexities of family life from a young age. Despite the challenges that came with having a large family, Lillian thrived in this environment and learned valuable lessons about efficiency, organization, and time management.
After graduating from high school, Lillian pursued her passion for engineering and psychology. She attended Brown University, where she earned her Ph.D. in industrial psychology in 1915. Lillian's academic achievements were groundbreaking, as she was one of the first female engineers to receive a doctorate in her field.
Lillian Moller Gilbreth made significant contributions to the field of industrial engineering through her pioneering work in time and motion study. She is widely regarded as the first industrial/organizational psychologist, applying psychological principles to improve efficiency and productivity in the workplace.
Throughout her career, Lillian collaborated with her husband, Frank Bunker Gilbreth, on numerous projects. Together, they revolutionized the field of industrial engineering and introduced innovative methods for streamlining processes and increasing efficiency.
In 1904, Lillian married Frank Bunker Gilbreth, and the couple went on to have thirteen children. Despite the demands of raising a large family, Lillian and Frank maintained a harmonious and organized household. Their children became integral participants in their experiments, applying their parents' industrial engineering principles to their daily lives.
Lillian's children later wrote books, such as "Cheaper by the Dozen" and "Belles on Their Toes," which detailed their family life and showcased how they implemented their parents' strategies in their own households.
Lillian Moller Gilbreth's legacy lives on through her groundbreaking work in industrial engineering and psychology. Her innovative approach to time and motion study laid the foundation for future advancements in the field, influencing generations of engineers and psychologists.
Her dedication to efficiency, organization, and productivity continues to inspire professionals in various industries, highlighting the importance of integrating psychological principles into engineering practices.
As a trailblazer for women in engineering, Lillian Moller Gilbreth shattered barriers and paved the way for future generations of female engineers and industrial psychologists. Her impact on the field remains enduring, cementing her status as a pioneer and visionary in the realm of industrial engineering.