In Greek mythology, Athena is the goddess of wisdom, knowledge, and handicraft, conveying strength and prosperity through agriculture, inventions, and industry. She is credited as the inventor of the rake, plough, the yoke to harness oxen, bridle, chariot, and the art of shipbuilding and navigation.
In America, we have had our own real world Athenas since before the nation’s independence. A woman was the first American colonist to receive a patent in 1715. Throughout U.S. history, there are numerous examples of women who have developed inventions that increased industry efficiency and safety, advanced key technologies, developed solutions to solve important problems, and ultimately, spread prosperity. And yet, well into the 21st century, the country still faces a shortage of women entering critical STEM fields…
