Celebrating LGBT History Month: Sophie Wilson - Computing pioneer, inventor, and advocate for inclusion

Sophie Wilson is a pioneering British computer scientist and inventor, best known for her groundbreaking work in the development of microprocessor technology. Born in 1957, she initially became renowned for her work at Acorn Computers in the 1980s, where she played a crucial role in designing the ARM (Acorn RISC Machine) architecture. This architecture went on to revolutionize the tech industry and is now the foundation for the vast majority of smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices in use today.

In addition to her work on the ARM architecture, Wilson's impressive portfolio of patents includes innovations in computing systems and hardware design, such as WO2001006354A1. These inventions laid the groundwork for the affordable, efficient processors that helped propel the computing world into the mobile era.

Wilson’s work in the tech field is remarkable not only for its technical prowess but also for her resilience as a trans woman in a male-dominated industry. After transitioning later in life, Sophie Wilson became an advocate for inclusion and diversity, sharing her journey to help break down barriers for other trans individuals in STEM fields.

Favourite quote: “Not knowing something is impossible has interesting effects on your work.”