Throughout history, Black innovators have always played a crucial role in shaping the technology that we rely on today. From groundbreaking inventions to visionary leadership, they broke barriers and redefined what was possible. At i.c.stars, we honor their contributions by continuing the work of empowering the next generation of diverse tech leaders.

1. Katherine Johnson, NASA Mathematician & Human Computer
Creola Katherine Johnson’s calculations were essential to some of NASA’s earliest space missions, including an astronaut’s orbit around the Earth. When she was asked what she felt her greatest contribution to space exploration was, she discussed her calculations that helped sync Project Apollo’s Lunar Module with the lunar-orbiting Command and Service Module. Her work laid the foundation for all modern space travel. Learn more about Katherine Johnson here.

2. Mark Dean, Co-Creator of the Personal Computer
Mark Dean is the innovator behind the microcomputer system and is the reason for computer technology today. Holding three of IBM’s original nine patents for the PC, Dean’s innovations helped revolutionize information technology, computing, and making technology more accessible. Learn more about Mark Dean here.

3. Dr. Shirley Jackson, Pioneer in Telecommunications
Dr. Shirley Jackson’s research in theoretical physics led to inventions like caller ID and touch-tone dialing. She was one of the first two Black women in the United States to receive a doctoral degree in physics and the first Black woman to earn a Ph.D. from MIT. While at MIT, she established the Black Student Union to increase the number of Black students on MIT’s campus, blazing a trail for others to follow. Learn more about Shirley Jackson here.

4. Roy L. Clay Sr. The Godfather of Silicon Valley
Roy L. Clay Sr. led the team and development of Hewlett-Packard’s first computer and later advocated for increased diversity in the tech industry. He owned his own consulting company which contributed to the formation of Silicon Valley. His leadership opened doors for Black professionals in Silicon Valley and in the tech field. You can read his book “Unstoppable: The Unlikely Story of a Silicon Valley Godfather” Learn more about Roy L. Clay Sr here.

5. Lisa Gelobter, Creator of Web Animation
Lisa Gelobter’s work in computer science contributed to the development of several technologies, including: web animation (GIFs!), and online videos. She has completely shaped the way that we communicate online and how we consume media through technology today. Lisa served as the Chief Digital Service Officer to the US Department of Education and is now the CEO and Founder of tEQuitable. Learn more about Lisa Gelobter here.

6. Granville T. Woods, The STEM Pioneer
Holding over 60 patents, Granville T. Woods revolutionized the railroad industry with his telegraph system that allowed trains to communicate, making rail travel safer and more efficient. His inventions were so profound that other inventors attempted to claim his work. His inventions influenced future developments in electrical engineering. Learn more about Granville T. Woods here.

7. Valerie Thomas, Inventor of the 3D Illusion Transmitter
While working at NASA, Valerie Thomas invented the 3D illusion transmitter called Landsat, the first satellite to send images of Earth from space. This technology is still used in medical imaging and satellite applications today. She developed the Space Physics Analysis Network known as SPAN to provide scientists and researchers the ability to share data and discoveries. Learn more about Valerie Thomas here.

8. Jerry Lawson, Creator of the Video Game Cartridge
Jerry Lawson was one of the very few Black engineers in his tech field. Jerry was the lead engineer behind the first commercial gaming cartridge system, which completely reshaped the video game industry and made it more accessible. His invention of interchangeable game cartridges laid the foundation for game systems including Atari, Playstation, Nintendo and Xbox. Learn more about Jerry Lawson here.

9. Marian Croak, Developer of VoIP Technology
Marian Croak’s work in Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology made modern video calls, online conferencing, and digital communication possible. In 2005, her team developed a text to donate system in response to Hurricane Katrina, which resulted in over $130,000 raised for relief and then $43 million for Haiti in 2010. This technology has expanded communication opportunities for both nonprofit and for-profit organizations. Marian is currently the Vice President of Engineering for Google. She currently holds over 200 patents and continues to be a leader in tech innovation. Learn more about Marian Croak here.

10. Dr. Clarence “Skip” Ellis, Computer Science Pioneer
Dr. Clarence Ellis was the first Black African-American to earn a Ph.D. in computer science. While working at Xerox PARC and Standford University he developed icon-based GUI and object oriented programming languages. Dr. Ellis was also the creator of Operational Transformation which is the techniques and processing that groupware systems utilize for real time collaboration of editing documents. We wouldn’t have Google Doc without him! Learn more about Dr. Clarence “Skip” Ellis here.

Continuing the Legacy at i.c.stars
The impact of these Black innovators extends beyond their inventions, it’s in the opportunities they’ve created for future generations and leaders in tech. We’re committed to carrying their torch by finding, training and mentoring, and supporting diverse talent for careers in technology. Through our tech training program, we empower young adults from underserved communities to build meaningful careers in tech, just as pioneers like Katherine Johnson and Mark Dean paved the way for today’s digital world.

We believe that tech should be accessible for everyone and that starts with creating pathways for innovation, leadership, and opportunity.

How You Can Get Involved
Mentor – Share your expertise with our talented interns.
Hire – Partner with i.c.stars to recruit top diverse talent.
Support – Donate to help us continue our mission of transforming lives through technology.

This Black History Month, let’s not only celebrate the past but also invest in the future of Black excellence in tech.