auDA is committed to diversity and we’re proud to have a strong representation of women at all levels of our organisation. Each one contributes in their individual way to auDA’s broader mission of championing an open, free, secure and global internet.
This year, the United Nations’ theme for International Women’s Day is “Invest in women: accelerate progress”. In the lead up to International Women’s Day 2024, we explore the achievements of some incredible women throughout history who pioneered the internet and digital technologies, accelerated technological advances, and paved the way for others in STEM.
Ada Lovelace: the world’s first computer programmer
Ada Lovelace was a skilled mathematician and a tech visionary. Born in 1815, Ada was ahead of her time. Despite living to only 36, Ada made an undeniable contribution to modern technology as we know it today.
In fact, Ada made her mark on the internet long before the internet came into existence by developing an algorithm for the ‘Analytical Engine’ machine – the first digital computer prototype.
The machine’s inventor Charles Babbage developed the Analytical Engine to function as a calculator, but Ada grasped the machine's full potential. She was the first to recognise that a computing machine was capable of much more, and it was her visionary ideas and algorithm that laid the groundwork for modern programming.
Grace Hopper: pioneer of computer programming languages
Grace Hopper’s work in programming languages and computer science has had a lasting impact on today’s digital landscape and helped enhance digital inclusion. Grace joined the US Navy in World War Two as a mathematician and professor and ended her career as rear admiral. She helped produce one of the first ever commercial computers (UNIVAC I) and played a key role in pioneering COBOL (Common Business-Oriented Language).
COBOL was a major advancement in computer programming. Much like the domain name system and IP Addresses we rely on to navigate the internet today, COBOL used words instead of numbers. This made it easily understood by humans and accessible to the wider community, not just computer scientists. COBOL became one of the most widely used programming languages in the world and is still used today.
Annie Easley: human computer and rocket scientist
Annie Easley made invaluable contributions to digital technology throughout her lifetime, including during her 34-year tenure at NASA. Annie was an extraordinary computer programmer, rocket scientist and mathematician. She developed complex code and computer simulations and engineered software that would be applied for key technological progression including energy technology and space exploration.
Annie was a major advocate for women in STEM and, as an African-American women breaking ground in technology, she used her experience to actively campaign for diversity in the industry. Her legacy continues to inspire individuals from diverse backgrounds to pursue careers in STEM and to strive for excellence in their fields.
A more diverse future
These stories represent the fundamental role of diversity in technology and its paramount importance both now and in the future. At auDA, we believe investing in women is essential to accelerate progress. As a member-based organisation, we are committed to improving the diversity of our membership base to reflect the Australian community and encourage women interested in using their voice to shape the future of Australia’s internet to join us. Through the program, we regularly support in women-led technology organisations and look forward to further work in this place in the coming year. Learn more about the .au membership program today.
If you’d like to read more from auDA on diversity, take a look at our blog on International Women’s Day 2023 - technology for an equitable future, which shares what digital equality and inclusion means to women in our .au member community. You can also read our Leaders of Tech interview series which features a range of trailblazing women leaders in their respective fields.
