Virginia Tucker

Virginia Layden Tucker (1909 – January 19, 1985) was an American mathematician known for her work at the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA), the precursor to NASA. She was one of the first human computers at NACA and later worked as an aerodynamicist, contributing to the design and improvement of airplanes. Tucker also played a role in recruiting individuals for the program. Born in Hertford, North Carolina in 1909, she graduated from North Carolina College for Women in 1930 with a B.A. in mathematics. Prior to joining NACA, Tucker worked as a high school mathematics teacher in her hometown. Throughout her career, she served as an advocate for women in mathematics.