Hattie Scott Peterson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Hattie Scott Peterson
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Hattie T. Scott
October 11, 1913 |
| Died | 10 April 1993 (aged 79) |
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| Children | Lori Peterson (Adopted) |
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Hattie T. Scott Peterson (1913–1993) was an amazing American engineer. She is known for being the first African-American woman to earn a bachelor's degree in civil engineering. This was a huge step forward!
Her Life and Work
Hattie Scott was born in Norfolk, Virginia, on October 11, 1913. Her parents were Hattie (Wilkinson) and Uzeil Scott. She married Donald Charles Peterson in 1943.
In 1946, Hattie graduated from Howard University. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering. Civil engineering is about designing and building things like roads, bridges, and buildings.
After graduating, Hattie started working for the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in 1947. She worked as a survey and cartographic engineer in Sacramento, California. This means she helped map and measure the land.
In 1954, she joined the local U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). The USACE builds and manages many important projects, like dams and flood control systems. Hattie was the very first woman engineer in her local USACE office. She encouraged other women to consider engineering as a career.
Hattie was also a member of several groups. These included the National Technical Association and the American Society of Photogrammetry. She was also part of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Hattie Peterson passed away on April 10, 1993, in Sacramento. She and her husband left money to Howard University to help students with scholarships.
Awards and Recognition
The Sacramento office of the USACE gives out a special award each year. It is called the Hattie Peterson Inspirational Award. This award honors someone in the district. It recognizes a person who shows great strength and determination. Especially when facing challenges in their life or work.
See also
In Spanish: Hattie Scott Peterson para niños
