Year: 1993

Who: Ayanna Howard

Where: NASA

Born in 1972, Ayanna Howard is a renowned roboticist whose work in artificial intelligence, robotics, and computer vision has led to numerous breakthroughs in the field. Inspired by the TV show The Bionic Woman from a young age, Howard pursued a career in robotics that led her to pivotal roles at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. Among her many accomplishments, Howard contributed to the development of SmartNav, an autonomous Mars rover, and SnoMote robots designed to explore the Antarctic ice shelves. These innovations reflect her drive to push the boundaries of technology and exploration.

Beyond her work in space exploration, Howard has made significant contributions to improving lives through technology. As the founder of Zyrobotics, she created mobile therapy and educational products tailored for children with special needs, blending her expertise in robotics with a commitment to social impact. Howard also serves as a professor at the Georgia Institute of Technology and has held the role of dean of the College of Engineering at Ohio State University, further solidifying her influence in both academia and the tech industry. Her work has not only advanced robotics but has also opened doors for future generations of engineers, particularly women and underrepresented minorities in STEM fields.

Ayanna Howard’s legacy extends beyond her technical achievements; it includes her dedication to making technology accessible and beneficial to all. Her innovations, especially in the realm of robotics and AI, have the potential to transform numerous industries, from space exploration to education and healthcare. Howard’s commitment to diversity in STEM and her advocacy for children with special needs inspire both the academic community and the next wave of tech innovators. Her work reminds us of the profound impact technology can have when driven by a desire to improve lives and solve real-world problems.

Sources

Website

• Howard University School of Electrical and Computer Engineering. (n.d.). Homepage. Georgia Institute of Technology. Retrieved March 13, 2025, from https://howard.ece.gatech.edu

• Ohio State University College of Engineering. (n.d.). About Dean Ayanna Howard. The Ohio State University College of Engineering. Retrieved March 13, 2025, from https://engineering.osu.edu/about/office-dean/about-dean-ayanna-howard