Ada Lovelace Day

Ada Lovelace Day History

Ada Lovelace Day is an international celebration of women's achievements in science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM). The observance aims to raise awareness of the vital role of women in these fields, thus inspiring more girls and young women to pursue STEM careers. It is marked with events such as talks, workshops and panel discussions to showcase the incredible accomplishments of female scientists and engineers, both historic and contemporary.

The idea of celebrating Ada Lovelace Day was founded by technologist Suw Charman-Anderson in 2009. Ada Lovelace, born Ada Gordon in 1815 in London, is recognised as the world's first computer programmer. A mathematician and writer, her work on Charles Babbage's early mechanical general-purpose computer, the Analytical Engine, laid the groundwork for modern computing. This event holds special significance, as Ada Lovelace, the only legitimate child of the renowned British Poet Lord Byron, remains a shining example of British excellence in STEM fields.

Ada Lovelace Day is observed through numerous events hosted by universities, schools, and organisations to discuss and celebrate the history and future of women in STEM disciplines. These activities range from educational seminars to hands-on workshops, often incorporating the use of creative and interactive methods to engage audiences of all ages. Ada Lovelace Day is celebrated annually on the second Tuesday of October, making it a highly anticipated event for all those interested in promoting gender equality within STEM fields.

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.
• Ada Lovelace’s work was revolutionary, and her notes on Babbage’s machines were published in an English science journal in 1843. She was only 27.
• The programming language 'Ada', created on behalf of the United States Department of Defense, was named after Lovelace.

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

Top things to do in the UK 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.
• Explore the Lovelace family's ancestral home, Horsley Towers, in Surrey, which is now a hotel.
• Attend various talks, workshops or seminars catering to Ada Lovelace Day. Many universities, schools, and organizations host events discussing the contributions of women in STEM fields.