Why Mary Jackson’s Application to the Engineering Program Was Unexpectedly Rejected- Unveiling the Hidden Reasons

Why was Mary Jackson’s application to the engineering program rejected? This question has been a topic of interest for many, as it highlights the systemic barriers faced by African American women in the field of engineering during the mid-20th century. Mary Jackson, an accomplished mathematician and engineer, faced discrimination and setbacks that are now recognized as part of the broader struggle for racial and gender equality in the workplace.

Mary Jackson was born on April 11, 1921, in Hampton, Virginia. She grew up in a family that valued education, and she excelled in her studies. After earning her high school diploma, she attended Hampton Institute, now Hampton University, where she earned a degree in mathematics. Her passion for engineering led her to pursue a career in the field, and she began working for the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), which later became NASA.

In 1951, Mary Jackson applied to the engineering program at NASA’s Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia. However, her application was rejected. The reason for the rejection was not explicitly stated, but it is widely believed that the discrimination against African American women in the workplace played a significant role. At the time, the engineering program was segregated, and African American employees were only allowed to work in support roles, such as laboratory assistants or secretaries.

Despite the rejection, Mary Jackson did not give up on her dream of becoming an engineer. She continued to work at Langley Research Center, and in 1953, she was promoted to the position of assistant to the chief of the Research Engineering Division. This role allowed her to work closely with engineers and gain valuable experience in the field.

In 1958, Mary Jackson took another significant step in her career when she applied to the Federal Employee’s Educational Institute (FEEI), which offered training programs for federal employees. She was accepted into the program and completed the engineering curriculum in 1962. This achievement paved the way for her to become the first African American woman to hold a professional engineering position at NASA.

Mary Jackson’s perseverance and determination were instrumental in breaking down barriers for African American women in the engineering field. Her story serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating that even in the face of discrimination and rejection, one can achieve their dreams with hard work and resilience.

The rejection of Mary Jackson’s application to the engineering program was a testament to the systemic racism and gender discrimination that persisted in the workplace during the mid-20th century. However, her story also shows that progress can be made through individual efforts and the collective struggle for equality. Mary Jackson’s achievements and the legacy she left behind continue to inspire future generations of engineers and trailblazers in the fight for racial and gender equality.