National Network for Equitable Library Service

Mary Golda Ross designed classified airplanes and spacecraft as Lockheed Aircraft Corporation's first female engineer. This story traces her journey from being the only girl in a high-school math class to becoming a teacher to pursuing an engineering degree, joining the top-secret Skunk Works division of Lockheed, and being a mentor for Native Americans and young women interested in engineering. In addition, this story highlights Cherokee values such as working cooperatively, remaining humble, and helping ensure equal opportunity and education for all.