Remembering Gladys West: A Pioneer of GPS Technology
Gladys Mae Brown West, the accomplished mathematician and technologist, passed away at the age of 95 on January 17, 2026, leaving behind a legacy as one of the key figures behind the development of the Global Positioning System (GPS). Her contributions have not only transformed navigation but have also inspired generations of women and scientists.
Early Life and Education
Born on October 27, 1930, in Sutherland, Virginia, West was raised in the segregated South during the Jim Crow era. Despite the societal challenges of her time, she excelled academically, consistently ranking at the top of her class. This dedication and hard work culminated in her valedictorian graduation from high school, which earned her a scholarship to Virginia State College (now Virginia State University), a historically Black institution.
While at Virginia State, West’s passion for mathematics flourished. She completed both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in mathematics there, becoming a proud member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority. Her quest for knowledge continued as she later pursued an additional master’s degree in public administration at the University of Oklahoma.
Career Beginnings
In 1956, West began her career at the Naval Proving Ground in Dahlgren, Virginia, now known as the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division. She made history as the second African American woman to be hired there, joining a trailblazing group of four Black employees. Tasked with modeling the shape of the Earth, West gathered and analyzed satellite data, laying critical groundwork that would eventually lead to the development of GPS technology.
Reflecting on her groundbreaking work, she noted the unexpectedly broad applications of GPS in civilian life, expressing her pride in having made significant contributions to technology that many people utilize daily. “It never gets too old,” she once shared. “I am just so pleased that I was able to make a contribution.”
Personal Life
It was at Dahlgren that West met her future husband, Ira West, another mathematician and one of her few Black colleagues. They married in 1957 and had three children together, eventually welcoming seven grandchildren. The couple shared a life dedicated to intellectual pursuits and mutual support until Ira’s passing in 2024.
In personal reflections shared with various media outlets, West conveyed that her experiences at Dahlgren were driven by a desire to set an example for the next generation, particularly for women aspiring to enter STEM fields. “I carried that load round, thinking that I had to be the best that I could be,” she said. “Always doing things just right.”
Pursuit of Further Education
West’s commitment to learning didn’t end with her early accomplishments. At the age of 70, she decided to pursue a doctorate at Virginia Tech. Despite facing significant health challenges, including a stroke, she persevered and completed her PhD. Her determination exemplified her lifelong belief in education as a vehicle for empowerment.
Legacy and Recognition
The Virginia Assembly recognized Gladys West’s incredible career in 2018, honoring her 42-year tenure at Dahlgren and her numerous contributions to satellite technology. Her journey wasn’t just marked by professional success; it also included writing a memoir titled “It Began With a Dream,” co-authored with M.H. Jackson, where she chronicled her life and work.
Her influence extends far beyond her technical achievements; she remains a symbol of resilience, inspiring young women and men alike to break barriers and pursue careers in the sciences. West’s journey from the tobacco farms of Virginia to the forefront of satellite technology showcases the power of education, perseverance, and the importance of representation in STEM fields.
In Memoriam
Gladys West’s passing marks the loss of a true pioneer in the field of technology, whose contributions have shaped how we navigate the world today. As we reflect on her life, her legacy will continue to motivate and inspire future generations to dream big and break through barriers, just as she did.