Black History Month 2024 is a perfect time to shine a spotlight on the amazing contributions African Americans have made across many fields, including the HVAC industry. At MS Maintenance Solutions Ltd (MS), we want to honour some of the leaders whose innovations not only keep us comfortable but have also changed the world in more ways than one. From heating and cooling breakthroughs to revolutionising design and climate science, these pioneers have left their mark on history—and the buildings we maintain today!
Lewis Latimer (1848-1928)
Notable Work: Contributions to Electric Lighting and Early Air Conditioning Innovations
Lewis Latimer’s journey started in challenging circumstances, but his perseverance led him to become one of the most brilliant inventors of his time. Born to formerly enslaved parents, Latimer worked his way up, eventually collaborating with renowned names like Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas Edison. While he’s most famous for his contributions to electric lighting, Latimer also played a key role in the development of early air conditioning systems. His work laid the foundation for the cool air we all enjoy on a hot summer day.
David Nelson Crosthwait Jr. (1898-1976)
Notable Work: Heating System for Radio City Music Hall
David Crosthwait Jr. was an engineer with a passion for making life more comfortable—literally. With over 39 patents in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning, Crosthwait’s work has been central to how we control our indoor climates today. However, his most famous achievement was designing the heating system for Radio City Music Hall. Without Crosthwait’s genius, those Rockettes might’ve had to dance in the cold, a feat thought to be impossible without his expertise! His innovations in thermostat controls and refrigeration are still developing in the HVAC world today.
Alice Parker (Dates Unknown)
Notable Work: Gas Heating Furnace
Though details about Alice Parker’s life are scarce, her invention speaks volumes. In 1919, Parker patented a gas-powered furnace that revolutionised heating. Before her innovation, people were relying on wood or coal to stay warm—messy, time-consuming, and not all that efficient. Parker’s furnace allowed for a cleaner and more reliable way to heat, which led to the development of central heating systems.
Warren Washington (1936 – Present)
Notable Work: Atmospheric Science and Climate Research
Warren Washington is a name you should know when it comes to climate science. As an atmospheric scientist, he helped develop the first computer models of the atmosphere back in the 1960s. These models are still used today to study climate change! Washington became the second African American to earn a PhD in atmospheric sciences and has had a long and celebrated career, including heading up the Climate Change Research Section at the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR). In 2010, he was awarded the National Medal of Science.
Walt Braithwaite (1945 – Present)
Notable Work: Computer-Aided Design (CAD) Software
Walt Braithwaite brought many modern engineering designs to life. Born in Jamaica, Braithwaite started his career at Boeing in 1965 and quickly rose through the ranks. In 1975, he spearheaded the development of computer-aided design (CAD) software, which transformed the engineering world by replacing manual drafting with digital design. His work didn’t just revolutionise the aerospace industry—it impacted design processes in industries across the globe. Braithwaite eventually became the highest-ranking Black executive at Boeing and was awarded the Black Engineer of the Year in 1995.
Honoring Innovation and Progress
These innovators didn’t just change HVAC—they changed the world. From making our buildings warmer (or cooler!) to advancing climate research and transforming design technology, their contributions have made life more comfortable and efficient for all of us.
As we celebrate Black History Month at MS, we’re proud to recognise their legacies and hope their stories inspire the next generation of inventors and engineers.
