TECHNOLOGY

academic level . Lovelace famously formed a lifelong connection with Charles Babbage , a Professor of Mathematics at Cambridge University , beginning when she was only 17 . While the term ‘ scientist ’ had not yet been invented , Babbage and Lovelace

certainly fit the bill , and the two of them

began frenzied communications on all subjects of science , math , and logic .

Lovelace ’ s lasting fame stems from the translation and accompanying

notes of a memoir , written by Luigi

Menebrea , on Babbage ’ s Analytical

Engine . Lovelace wrote her article

– Amy Bunszel , VP of Digital Engineering Products at Autodesk

between 1842 and 1843 , outlining her easy understanding of Babbage ’ s machine , and her view of it as a computer . The notes contain the outlines of software , including an algorithm – the first of its kind – tailored for use on a computer , but this program has never been tested . They also hint at the concept of computer-generated music , and describe the Analytical Engine as a device for “ developping [ sic ] and tabulating any function whatever … the engine [ is ] the material expression of any indefinite function of any degree of generality and complexity .”

This incredible scientific foresight is why we continue to celebrate Lovelace and her heavy influence today . Ada Lovelace Day has only been recognized since 2009 , but its creation ensured that her legacy was rightly resurrected . Now , the day involves international events led by female industry experts , allowing and encouraging all women either in STEM or considering a career in STEM to become involved .

Tessa Colledge is an engineering software programmer at Autodesk , and is dedicated to actively involving more women in STEM , visiting schools

18 January 2017