Much like the celebrated African American 'Hidden Figures' mathematician Katherine Johnson who played a crucial role in calculating launch trajectories and return paths for the Apollo astronauts at NASA, Dr. Gladys Mae West was known for her contributions to mathematical modeling of the shape of the Earth and the development of satellite planetary survey models. Her work laid the foundation for the Global Positioning System (GPS) we enjoy today.
West was one of the top two students from her graduating class to receive a full scholarship to HBCU Virginia State College (now Virginia State University), where she chose to study mathematics - a subject mostly studied by men. After a brief teaching career, she completed her Masters of Mathematics degree and began working at the Naval Proving Ground in Dahlgren, Virginia in 1956.
In the early 1960s, she participated in an award-winning study that proved the regularity of Pluto’s motion relative to the planet Neptune and began analyzing data to create models of Earth's shape. As project manager, she programmed computers using complex algorithms to account for variations in the gravitational, tidal, and other forces that distort Earth's shape.
In 1986, West published Data Processing System Specifications for the Geosat Satellite Radar Altimeter, a 51-page technical report from the Naval Surface Weapons Center (NSWC) explaining how to improve the accuracy of important components of satellite surveying.
West worked for the Naval Proving Ground for 42 years, retiring in 1988. She completed a PhD in Public Administration at Virginia Tech by distance-learning in 2000 and was inducted into the United States Air Force Hall of Fame in 2018. She received the Webby Lifetime Achievement Award for the development of satellite geodesy models.
Sources: Af.Mil.gov; Endgadget.com; Wikipedia.org
Tabor 100 Offers Technical Assistance for DBE / ACDBE Programs
The U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) has issued a new federal rule affecting the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) and Airport Concession DBE (ACDBE) programs. As of October 3, 2025, race and gender-based presumptions of disadvantage have been eliminated.
***This means ALL DBE and ACDBE firms currently certified must submit a re-evaluation application by February 4th, 2026 ***
For more information, or to request assistance in re-applying for the program, scan the QR code or go to www.tabor100.org to fill out the form for free assistance.
City of Tacoma Equity in Contracting Program Workshop
2/12/2026 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM (PST) 2/12/2026 11:00 AM (PST) No Fee
Government Contracting, Government Industrial Base (GIB) Readiness, Outreach/ Networking, Public Works, Socioeconomic Certification (WOSB/VOSB/HUBZone/etc.)
The City of Tacoma’s Equity in Contracting (EIC) Program, in partnership with the Washington State Office of Minority and Women’s Business Enterprises (OMWBE), invites you to a virtual, two-part workshop series focused on OMWBE certification led by OMWBE Analyst Resie Rogers.
In-person attendance is strongly encouraged, as the goal of this session is for participants to start or complete their certification application during the class. To get the most out of the experience, we recommend beginning your application in advance and bringing any questions or challenges that may be preventing you from moving forward.
Please note: OMWBE 101 is not a prerequisite for attending this session.
Participants will have the opportunity to work directly on their OMWBE certification application and are encouraged to bring the following items:
Laptop/electronic device to start or complete the certification process
Capabilities statement if available – for networking opportunity
Community Events
Rainier Scholars Application for 4th Graders!
Rainier Scholars seeks students with strong desire to attend college. Focusing recruitment efforts in Title 1 schools in the greater Puget Sound region, the application period for 4th graders is open. Hurry, the application period closes soon.
Applicants should be:
Currently enrolled in 4th grade in the Seattle, Renton, Highline or surrounding districts.
Loves to learn.
Looking to be part of a community of curious, motivated, and supportive peers.
In addition, the Rainier Scholars program looks for families with the greatest need (those with limited income, minimal experience navigating higher education pathways, and/or other significant barriers to college graduation) to apply.
Families must demonstrate a commitment to the long-term work of developing the skills and habits required to obtain a college degree in service of maximizing their choices and opportunities.
Applicants must attend an informational session in order to apply.
Washington State Employment Security Department (ESD). Help others find jobs! You and your work matters here
Washington State Department of Social & Health Services openings posted at http://bit.ly/2JjcTzW. Learn more about DSHS and current job openings at these links: About Us | DSHS
