Emma Lilian Todd was born in Washington, D.C., to parents of New England heritage. Growing up in a family with a strong connection to innovation and invention likely fostered her early interest in mechanics and design. Though details of her early childhood are scarce, it's clear that she developed a keen interest in how things worked from a young age.

Before dedicating herself to aviation, Lilian Todd worked as a stenographer. However, she simultaneously pursued her passion for invention. She designed and patented various inventions, showcasing her inherent inventive talent and entrepreneurial spirit. These early projects provided her with practical experience in design and manufacturing, laying the groundwork for her future endeavors in aviation.