When we think of tech pioneers, names like Bill Gates and Steve Jobs often dominate the conversation. But behind the scenes—and often ahead of their time—important women in technology have played a critical role in shaping the digital world we live in today. Organizations like Women in Tech® Global are working to empower millions of women and girls in STEM worldwide. From wireless communication to programming languages and security systems, their contributions have transformed industries and everyday life.
In this article, we pay homage to these trailblazers by highlighting women whose innovations continue to impact technology in profound ways. There are many important women in technology worth celebrating.
Hedy Lamarr: The Mother of Wi-Fi
Ever wondered who to thank for your Wi-Fi connection? Although Hedy Lamarr was best known as a Hollywood star, her brilliance extended far beyond the silver screen. During World War II, Lamarr co-developed a “Secret Communications System” to help combat the Axis powers. This invention introduced spread-spectrum technology, which used frequency hopping to secure radio signals. She remains an example of how some truly important women have shaped technology.
Today, Lamarr’s concept forms the backbone of wireless communication—powering Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and GPS. Her foresight earned her a place in the Inventors Hall of Fame, proving that innovation knows no boundaries.
Marie Van Brittan Brown: Inventor of Home Security
Modern home security systems owe their existence to Marie Van Brittan Brown, who, in 1966, patented the first closed-circuit television security system. Her design included peepholes, cameras, monitors, and two-way microphones. These features influenced today’s advanced security solutions.
Brown’s invention paved the way for video monitoring, remote-controlled locks, and alarm systems. This makes her one of the most important women in technology for personal safety innovations.
Marissa Mayer: Shaping the Google Experience
As Google’s 20th employee and first female engineer, Marissa Mayer helped define the user experience that billions rely on daily. Mayer played a key role in developing products like Google Maps, Google Earth, Street View, and Gmail. She also influenced the design and functionality of Google’s search interface, creating what many call “The Google Experience.” Mayer is undeniably a pivotal figure among important women in technology. Her invention laid the foundation for modern security systems, which remain critical in today’s cybersecurity landscape (read more)
Her leadership and technical expertise made her a standout figure in Silicon Valley. She became an inspiration for women pursuing careers in tech.
Grace Hopper: The Queen of Software
Known as the “Queen of Software,” Grace Hopper revolutionized programming by creating the foundation for COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language) in 1958. Before Hopper’s work, computers only understood binary code, making programming inaccessible to most people. Her vision for an English-based programming language opened doors for millions of developers and shaped modern software development. As such, Hopper remains a key example of important women in the field of technology.
Hopper’s contributions underscore why she remains one of the most important women in technology. She bridged the gap between humans and machines.
Why These Women Matter
The stories of Hedy Lamarr, Marie Van Brittan Brown, Marissa Mayer, and Grace Hopper remind us that innovation is not gendered. Instead, it’s driven by curiosity, creativity, and courage. These important women in technology didn’t just break barriers; they built the foundation for the digital age.
As we celebrate their achievements, let’s continue to amplify the voices of women in STEM and inspire the next generation of tech leaders.
Charles Lobert, has been in the Detroit Metro Area’s IT industry for over two decades & with VCS since ’04. Throughout the years, Lobert has held nearly every position at VCS & is responsible for several major organizational shifts within VCS.