Ruth Leach Amonette: A Trailblazing Businesswoman and Educator

A Pioneer in Corporate America

Ruth Leach Amonette was a groundbreaking American businesswoman, author, and educator who made history by becoming the first female executive and vice president at IBM in 1943. This remarkable achievement made her one of the few women in high-ranking corporate positions in the United States at the time.

Early Life and Education

Amonette was born on September 24, 1916, in Oakland, California, to a family with one sister. She attended Piedmont High School in Piedmont, California, and later enrolled at the University of California, Berkeley in 1933. During her time at college, she was an active member of Kappa Kappa Gamma and enjoyed playing tennis.

Early Career and IBM

After graduating with a degree in political science in 1937, Amonette worked as a dental assistant before quitting to work at the Golden Gate International Exposition. She joined IBM in February 1939 as a Systems Service Representative, where she presented demos of IBM typewriters at the Golden Gate International Exposition. Her exceptional skills and dedication led to her promotion as a teacher for IBM at the United States Department of Education in Endicott, New York, in July 1940.

Rise to Corporate Power

In October 1940, Amonette became the Secretary of Education for Women for IBM, a position that involved training women throughout IBM about selling IBM products throughout North America. Her outstanding performance and leadership skills led to her appointment as vice president of IBM on November 16, 1943. This milestone made her one of the few women in corporate power positions in the United States and one of the youngest people in the nation to hold a high-level position.

Personal Milestones and Challenges

In 1947, Amonette recovered from tuberculosis, which forced her to take a leave of absence from IBM. She returned to work that year and continued to make significant contributions to the company. Between 1947 and 1953, she served as a board member for the Camp Fire Girls, the New York Public Library, and the Professional Women's Club.

Legacy and Impact

Amonette's trailblazing career paved the way for future generations of women in corporate America. Her remarkable achievements and contributions to IBM earned her a place in history as a pioneering businesswoman and educator. Her legacy continues to inspire and empower women to pursue careers in leadership and technology.

Philosophical Contributions and Beliefs

Amonette credited Thomas J. Watson, the founder of IBM, for providing the vision and foresight to employ her in a high-level position. She believed in the importance of education and training, which was reflected in her work as a teacher and educator.

Career Highlights and Major Works

• First female executive and vice president at IBM (1943)
• Secretary of Education for Women for IBM (1940)
• Teacher for IBM at the United States Department of Education (1940)
• Board member for the Camp Fire Girls, the New York Public Library, and the Professional Women's Club (1947-1953)

Awards and Honors

Amonette's remarkable achievements and contributions to IBM and the community earned her numerous awards and honors, although specific details are not available.

Personal Relationships and Anecdotes

Amonette's relationships and anecdotes are not well-documented, but her remarkable career and achievements speak to her dedication, perseverance, and passion for education and technology.