Dr. Gladys B. West: A Founding Mother of GPS

Abstract

The National Center of Women’s Innovations (NCWI) is proud to launch this exhibit of Dr. Gladys B. West, an under-recognized woman innovator. Her mapping of the world enabled GPS (Global Positioning System) which has changed countless industries, fields, and lives. NCWI is determined to make women innovators like Dr. West receive mainstream recognition, and encourage girls to equally participate in studying and solving global needs.Officially, the exhibit opened March 7, 2025 when Va. Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick, Trimble VP- Construction Lisa Ruggeri, VP & Executive Director VT Innovation Center Lance Collins, Jane Plitt, Founder and Board Chair of the National Center of the Women’s Innovation Center and Andre Jones, eldest grandson of Dr. West all spoke of Dr. West’s extraordinary accomplishment . Scott Fralin VT exhibit designer was there to assure its sparkle. Dr. Pamela Gilchrist VT Director of K-12 STEM programs described the exhibit as “exceptional.”