Even as a child, Mary displayed a remarkable aptitude for invention. At the age of six, she attempted to invent a self-oiling door hinge, demonstrating her early interest in improving everyday objects. She was constantly finding ways to solve small inconveniences.

Mary Kenner enrolled at Howard University, where she studied for a year and a half. However, financial difficulties forced her to withdraw. Despite not completing her degree, her time at Howard University exposed her to a wider range of academic disciplines and further stimulated her intellectual curiosity.

After leaving Howard, Mary took on various jobs to support herself and her family. While working as a nanny and holding other positions, she never abandoned her passion for invention, constantly conceiving of new ideas and working on prototypes.