Indigenous Tech Leaders Inspiring Change This Native American Heritage Month

November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich traditions, cultures, and contributions of Native American communities across the United States. 

In tech, Native Americans are making groundbreaking strides, breaking barriers, and inspiring future generations. 

Here we shine a spotlight on five trailblazers who are redefining success. 

Aaron Yazzie: Developing Tools for Mars Exploration

As a mechanical engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Aaron Yazzie, a Diné (Navajo) Nation member, designs critical systems for space missions. His work on the Mars Perseverance Rover, particularly the drill bits that search for evidence of ancient life, exemplifies his commitment to innovation. 

Danielle Boyer: Providing Accessible Robotics Education

Danielle Boyer, an Ojibwe inventor and founder of The STEAM Connection, creates free educational resources and robotics kits for Indigenous youth. Her work includes SkoBot, a robot designed to preserve Indigenous languages through technology. 

Nicole Aunapu Mann: Leading NASA Missions

Nicole Aunapu Mann, a Wailacki tribal member, made history as the first Native American woman in space and the commander of NASA’s SpaceX Crew-5 mission. With a background in mechanical engineering, Mann represents the potential for Indigenous voices to lead in high-stakes environments like space exploration.

Robin Máxkii: Advocating for Digital Equity

Robin Máxkii, an Indigenous tech advocate and filmmaker, works to bridge the digital divide in Native communities. A self-taught coder, Máxkii’s career includes founding Native Notes, organizing the first Indigenous collegiate hackathon, and producing media to highlight technology’s role in education.

Matthew Yazzie: Driving Diversity in Tech

Matthew Yazzie, also Diné, focuses on addressing workplace trauma and discrimination as an organizational scientist and advocate. As founder of the Others Project, he collects data to enhance diversity and inclusion efforts. Yazzie’s initiatives aim to make workplaces more equitable and supportive for underrepresented groups.