Celebrating International Women's Day: Honoring Bertha Lamme's Engineering Legacy

Celebrating International Women's Day: Honoring Bertha Lamme's Engineering Legacy
On this International Women's Day, Westinghouse proudly celebrates the incredible achievements of women in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Today, we shine a spotlight on the remarkable legacy of Bertha Lamme Feicht, one of the pioneering engineers whose groundbreaking work continues to inspire generations.

Bertha Lamme was born on February 20, 1869, in Springfield, Ohio. Following a similar path to her brother Benjamin, she graduated from Ohio State University with a degree in mechanical engineering. She was not only the first woman to receive this degree from Ohio State but also the first woman in the United States to receive such a degree.

After college, Westinghouse hired Bertha just as her brother before her. There, she worked in mathematics and machine design with some of the most innovative engineering teams in the world. Among the groundbreaking engineers was her future husband, Russel Feicht. During her tenure at Westinghouse, she was part of the team that helped light the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago in 1893. This same technology would later be implemented at Niagara Falls harnessing the power of the falls to generate electricity.

At a time when the field was predominantly male-dominated, Bertha Lamme broke barriers and became one of the first female engineers in the United States. Her expertise and dedication were unmatched, leading her to become a leading expert in the design and enhancement of electrical generators and turbines.

Lamme's contributions to the industry were nothing short of revolutionary. Her work focused on developing more efficient and powerful machines, particularly in the realm of steam turbine design. The turbines she helped design not only increased efficiency but also played a pivotal role in the advancement of electrical power generation.

Despite the challenges she faced, Bertha Lamme's determination and brilliance propelled her forward. Her legacy continues to inspire women in STEM fields today, serving as a testament to the incredible impact that women have made throughout history.

As we celebrate International Women's Day, Westinghouse honors Bertha Lamme's enduring legacy. We remain committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment where all individuals, regardless of gender, are empowered to pursue their passions and make a lasting impact on the world.

Happy International Women's Day! Let us celebrate the achievements of women like Bertha Lamme, whose pioneering spirit and unwavering dedication have left an indelible mark on the world of engineering and beyond.