9 Black STEM Trailblazers Breaking Barriers and Inspiring Innovation

Updated: February 6, 2025

While the world of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) is growing exponentially, for some people it’s still challenging to break in. In 2021, 24% of the general population in the US worked in STEM and it was estimated that Black people made up only 9% of that workforce. With the U.S. The Department of Labor projecting that STEM jobs will increase by nearly two times the rate of other jobs in the next decade, it’s important now, more than ever, to advocate for increased STEM funding especially in under-resourced communities that lack the programs and resources to fully engage students in these subject areas.

Where would the world be without the contributions of Black inventors, mathematicians, scientists, or engineers? The traffic light and gas mask were invented by Garrett Morgan. And for animated GIFs, we have Lisa Gelobter to thank. These are all creations that came from the curious minds of Black STEM professionals (before we were even using the term STEM)! From inventors and engineers to educators and creators, let’s take a look at some of the Black professionals who have and are still inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders – all y’all.