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Edith Clarke
Edith Clarke
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03.04.25
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Overview

Edith Clarke was a pioneering American electrical engineer and the first female professor of electrical engineering at the University of Texas at Austin. Her work revolutionized the field of power systems analysis, simplifying complex calculations and making significant contributions to the design and understanding of electrical grids. This timeline highlights key moments in her life and career, showcasing her remarkable journey and lasting impact.
Main Milestones
Birth in Howard County, Maryland
February 10, 1883
Edith Clarke was born on a farm in Howard County, Maryland, to Susan Dorsey Owings and John Ridgely Clarke. Losing both parents at a young age presented significant challenges, yet this early adversity fueled her determination and independence.
Graduation from Vassar College
1908
Clarke graduated from Vassar College with a degree in mathematics and astronomy. This foundational education provided her with the analytical skills and problem-solving abilities that would prove crucial in her later engineering work.
Joining AT&T as a Computer
1911
Clarke began her career at AT&T as a 'computer,' performing complex calculations for electrical engineers. This experience exposed her to the intricacies of power systems and sparked her interest in the field of electrical engineering.
First Woman to Earn an Electrical Engineering Degree from MIT
1918
After briefly teaching mathematics and physics at a women's college, Clarke pursued formal engineering education. She enrolled at MIT and became the first woman to earn a Master of Science degree in Electrical Engineering, a monumental achievement breaking barriers in a male-dominated field.
Joining General Electric
1919
Clarke joined General Electric (GE) as a salaried engineer in the Turbine Engineering Department. Although she initially worked with women computers, her skills were quickly recognized, and she soon transitioned to solving complex power system problems.
Invention of the Clarke Calculator
1921
While at GE, Clarke invented the 'Clarke Calculator,' a graphical tool that simplified calculations related to transmission line inductance and capacitance. This innovation significantly reduced the time and effort required for power system analysis, increasing efficiency and accuracy.
First Woman to Present a Paper at an AIEE Meeting
1926
Clarke presented her work on power system stability at an American Institute of Electrical Engineers (AIEE) meeting, marking the first time a woman had achieved this. This presentation further solidified her reputation as a leading expert in her field.
Publication of 'Circuit Analysis of A-C Power Systems'
1943
Clarke published her seminal textbook, 'Circuit Analysis of A-C Power Systems,' a comprehensive and influential work that became a standard reference for electrical engineers. This two-volume set simplified complex calculations and became an indispensable tool for students and professionals alike.
Professor at the University of Texas at Austin
1947
Clarke joined the faculty of the University of Texas at Austin as a professor of electrical engineering, becoming the first female professor of electrical engineering in the United States. She inspired and mentored generations of students, leaving a lasting impact on the field.
Retirement from the University of Texas
1954
Clarke retired from her professorship at the University of Texas, but her contributions continued to be recognized and celebrated. Her textbook remained a core text in engineering curricula for many years.
Death in Baltimore, Maryland
October 29, 1959
Edith Clarke passed away in Baltimore, Maryland, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, perseverance, and groundbreaking achievements in electrical engineering. Her contributions to power system analysis continue to shape the field today.

Other Themed Timelines

Academic Career TimelineAcademic Career TimelineAwards and Recognition TimelineAwards and Recognition TimelineCareer at General Electric (GE) TimelineCareer at General Electric (GE) TimelineEarly Life and Education TimelineEarly Life and Education TimelineImpact on Women in Engineering TimelineImpact on Women in Engineering TimelinePersonal Life and Relationships TimelinePersonal Life and Relationships TimelinePublications and Patents TimelinePublications and Patents TimelineTechnical Contributions TimelineTechnical Contributions Timeline