Ada Lovelace Day

Ada Lovelace Day History

Ada Lovelace Day aims to recognize the achievements of women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. The event seeks to inspire young girls to enter these critical domains and increase representation of women who have made remarkable contributions to their respective fields. By highlighting the accomplishments of prominent female STEM professionals, Ada Lovelace Day seeks to dismantle stereotypes associated with women in science and technology and celebrates their essential roles in driving innovation and progress.

The event is named after Ada Lovelace, a 19th-century mathematician and writer who is considered the world's first computer programmer. She developed the first computer program for the Analytical Engine, a groundbreaking mechanical computer designed by Charles Babbage. In America, Ada Lovelace Day is a significant reminder of the contributions women have made to the development and progress of STEM fields. Women like Grace Hopper, who developed the first compiler for computer programming languages; Katherine Johnson, who calculated the trajectory of Apollo 11; and many more who have made tremendous impact in these areas.

In the United States, Ada Lovelace Day is celebrated through various events, STEM education initiatives, and public lectures. These events include keynote speeches, panel discussions, mentorship programs, exhibitions, and workshops aimed at motivating women and girls to pursue careers in STEM fields. Educational institutions, research centers, and organizations across the country also hold commemorative events to appreciate and uphold the exemplary work of women in STEM. Ada Lovelace Day is celebrated annually on the second Tuesday in October, which falls on October 12th this year.

Ada Lovelace Day facts

• Ada Lovelace Day comes from Ada Gordon, born in 1815. Ada was interested in science and machines and is known for her notes regarding the analytical engine.
• Ada Gordon is known as the first computer programmer. Her work would go on to inspire Alan Turing's work toward the first modern computer.

In the News and Trending in the US for Ada Lovelace Day

Top things to do in the US for Ada Lovelace Day

• Sign up for a free webinar or participate in the Finding Ada virtual STEM conference.
• Write a blog post, record a podcast, or post on social media about the women leaders in your life. This can be teachers, lecturers, researchers, colleagues, anyone you feel is a real life heroine.
• Places like the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in DC, California Academy of Sciences, and the Museum of Science in Boston will enhance your knowledge about women's contributions to science and technology.
• Learn more about Ada Lovelace or women in STEM through documentaries or movies that can be found on many streaming platforms.