Mary Ross, born on September 9, 1908 in Park Hill, Oklahoma, was a Cherokee mathematician and engineer who made significant contributions to the aerospace industry. She was the great granddaughter of Cherokee Nation Chief John Ross, which instilled in her a strong sense of pride in her Native American heritage.
After graduating from the Northeastern State Teachers' College with a degree in mathematics, Ross went on to pursue her passion for astronomy at the Colorado State Teachers' College, where she earned a master's degree in the field. It was during this time that she discovered her aptitude for engineering and decided to further her education by studying engineering at the University of California-Los Angeles.
Ross's engineering career began when she joined Lockheed Martin's renowned "Skunk Works" space travel design and engineering program. She quickly made a name for herself in the male-dominated field of engineering, becoming the first woman of Native American heritage to pursue a career in engineering.
Throughout her career, Ross worked on various groundbreaking projects, including the development of the Agena rocket, which played a crucial role in the Gemini and Apollo space missions. Her expertise in mathematics and engineering was instrumental in the success of these missions, and she was highly respected for her innovative problem-solving skills.
Despite facing discrimination and challenges as a woman of color in a predominantly white and male industry, Ross persisted and paved the way for future generations of Native American female engineers. She was a trailblazer in the aerospace industry and a source of inspiration for many.
After her passing, Ross left a lasting legacy by endowing a substantial amount to the National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, D.C. Her contribution will ensure that her achievements and pioneering spirit are remembered for years to come.
Mary Ross's groundbreaking work in engineering has not gone unnoticed. She is celebrated as a pioneer in the field of aerospace engineering and a role model for women and Native Americans pursuing careers in STEM. Her dedication, intelligence, and resilience continue to inspire generations of engineers.
Today, Mary Ross's legacy lives on in the countless lives she has touched and the barriers she has broken down. Her story serves as a reminder that with determination and perseverance, anything is possible.