Hello! I'm Byron Crudup. Welcome to my little corner of cyberspace.

I would like to share some interesting facts about a segment of history that has remained relatively unsung. As a structural engineer, I've had a long interest in blacks who have overcome all odds to make outstanding contributions to technology in general and engineering in particular. So, I've put together some information collected over the years about a few of them. It is by no means comprehensive; just a simple attempt at putting into clear perspective the role of black folk in science and technology, past, present and future. I hope to change/update the list every month, or as time permits, so stay tuned.

It should be emphasized that no one is claiming that the inventions mentioned would not have been possible without these people. The real point is that these pioneers were outstanding contributors to society as a whole in spite of the rampant bigotry existing at the time. One cannot help but think about how many powerful minds were lost (possibly preventing real advances in technology), due to racism.

So, for the young man or woman who thinks that technology is "too difficult" to learn and master because of today's discrimination, that math and science is "just for white kids," or that black students "can't cut it" in these areas, please think again. Think about what these outstanding people had to endure, and how they persevered despite the odds.

In working with our youth in Eastern Pennsylvania, I've come to the conclusion that black and latino youth need a cultural "booster shot" when it comes to building self-confidence in the learning of math and science. Black youth must understand that we have a long a proud heritage in this area, even if it remains relatively "unsung" in our history books. It is in this spirit that this collection of OUTSTANDING BLACKS IN ENGINEERING of the past is offered.