At a time when the engineering world widely underestimated women, Nora Stanton Blatch Barney was a pioneer in civil engineering and a champion for equal rights.
In the early 20th century, one woman dared to challenge rigidly defined gender roles and pave the way for future generations of female engineers. Nora Stanton Blatch Barney made history in 1905 by becoming the first woman to graduate from Cornell University with an engineering degree. Her journey was remarkable not just for its accomplishments but also for the profound legacy she left as a champion for women’s rights and a pioneer in civil engineering.
Nora was born into a family deeply rooted in the fight for women’s rights. Her grandmother, Elizabeth Cady Stanton, was a prominent figure in the women’s suffrage movement. Her mother, Harriot Stanton Blatch, continued the tradition of activism, inspiring Nora to advocate for gender equality throughout her life. Her familial influence undoubtedly shaped Nora’s determination to succeed in a field dominated by men.
Breaking Barriers in Engineering
At Cornell, Nora was more than a student; she was an active member of the university community. She managed the Women’s Fencing Club and joined the Kappa Kappa Gamma sorority, all while pursuing her civil engineering degree. Her academic work was impressive as well. During her studies, she solved a significant problem in hydrodynamics, culminating in her thesis “An Experimental Study of the Flow of Sand and Water in Pipes under Pressure.” Her dedication to her field earned her membership in Sigma Xi, an honorary scientific society.
Upon graduating, Nora’s career took off. She served as an assistant engineer for the New York Public Service Commission. She later worked for the Public Works Administration in Connecticut and Rhode Island, where she took on various roles, including architect and structural-steel designer. However, her journey was not without obstacles.
While Nora became the first woman admitted to the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), her initial acceptance came with limitations—she was only allowed to be a junior member. Denied full associate membership, she took the matter to court, although she ultimately lost that legal battle. However, as a testament to her lasting impact on her profession, the ASCE recognized Nora’s contributions posthumously and awarded her fellow status in 2015.
Nora Stanton Blatch Barney succeeded in a field where women were still widely underestimated. Her achievements in civil engineering and her steadfast commitment to advocating for women’s rights have left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire women in STEM today.
We’re always looking for trailblazers.
Collaborate with fellow professionals who believe in their work’s importance and who care deeply about making a difference.
