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Emma Lilian Todd: A Trailblazing Aviator and Inventor

Jerry Ward

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Published in Wood Wire Wings: Emma Lilian Todd Invents An Airplane

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Emma Lilian Todd, A Young Woman With Short Hair, Wearing A White Blouse And A Dark Skirt, Standing Next To An Airplane Wood Wire Wings: Emma Lilian Todd Invents An Airplane

Wood Wire Wings: Emma Lilian Todd Invents an Airplane

Early Life and Education

Emma Lilian Todd was born on September 2, 1899, in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Her father was an engineer, and her mother was a musician. Todd displayed a passion for engineering and aviation from a young age. She built her first model airplane at the age of 10 and even experimented with flying a kite with a built-in engine.

Despite the prevailing societal norms and limited opportunities for women in STEM fields at the time, Todd pursued her education in engineering. She attended the University of Michigan, where she studied mechanical engineering. After graduating in 1922, she became the first woman to earn a degree in this field from the university.

Aviation Career

Todd's love for flying took flight when she enrolled at the Glenn Curtiss Flying School in 1923. She excelled in her training and obtained her pilot's license just a few months later. In 1925, she became the first Canadian woman to earn a Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) pilot's license.

Her accomplishments in aviation did not end there. In 1928, Todd participated in the Ford Reliability Tour, a cross-country air race from Dearborn, Michigan, to Los Angeles, California. She was the only female pilot in the competition and finished in 10th place, demonstrating her exceptional flying skills and endurance.

Inventing the "Todd Inverted Jenny"

Beyond her accomplishments as an aviator, Todd also made significant contributions as an inventor. In 1930, she designed and built her own airplane, which she named the "Todd Inverted Jenny." The aircraft was unique because it had a revolutionary inverted Gull wing design, which improved its stability and reduced drag.

The Todd Inverted Jenny was a groundbreaking invention that attracted attention from aviation experts. It earned her the FAI's Henry De la Vaulx Medal in 1931, making her the first woman to receive this prestigious award.

Later Life and Legacy

Todd's career in aviation and invention continued throughout the 1930s and 1940s. She worked as an aviation consultant and even tested and certified new aircraft designs. She also became involved in promoting aviation safety and women's roles in the field.

In later years, Todd shared her knowledge and experiences through writing and public speaking. She authored several books, including "Women in Aviation" and "How to Fly an Airplane." Her writings provided valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs faced by women in aviation.

Emma Lilian Todd passed away on August 27, 1980, at the age of 80. Her legacy as a trailblazing aviatrix, inventor, and advocate for women in STEM continues to inspire generations. Her contributions to aviation history have cemented her place as one of the most influential figures in the field.

Emma Lilian Todd's life and work embody the spirit of innovation, determination, and perseverance. Her achievements as a pilot, inventor, and advocate paved the way for countless other women in aviation and STEM fields. Her legacy serves as a reminder that with passion, hard work, and a belief in one's abilities, anything is possible.

Wood, Wire, Wings: Emma Lilian Todd Invents an Airplane

by Kirsten W. Larson

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