Black History Month serves as a time to reflect on the rich cultural heritage, resilience, and achievements of African Americans, whose impact continues to inspire generations. We are proud to celebrate the significant contributions Black innovators have made throughout history by highlighting three trailblazers who helped shape the energy industry and modern infrastructure.
David Crosthwait – Mastering Indoor Climate Control
David Crosthwait was a mechanical and electrical engineer, inventor, and writer whose expertise revolutionized indoor climate control. As the first Black American fellow of the American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers, Crosthwait held over 35 U.S. patents and 80 foreign patents. His innovative heating and ventilation designs were instrumental in enhancing indoor environments for large buildings, including Radio City Music Hall and Rockefeller Center. His work continues to influence modern climate control systems.
Lewis Latimer – Illuminating the World
Best known for improving Thomas Edison’s light bulb, Lewis Latimer invented a longer-lasting carbon filament in the 1870s, making electric light more practical and affordable. His contributions helped expand public lighting infrastructure worldwide. Beyond his technical expertise, Latimer authored the first book on electric lighting and played a key role in bringing electricity to homes and businesses across the globe.
Sophie Maxwell – Champion for Environmental Justice
A former electrician and dedicated public servant, Sophie Maxwell served three terms as San Francisco’s District 10 Supervisor. She played a pivotal role in advocating for environmental justice and equitable resource distribution, working alongside community advocates and city officials to close the Hunter’s Point and Potrero Hill Power Plants. After serving as an SFPUC Commissioner, Maxwell continues her work to advance clean energy initiatives and promote sustainability for all San Franciscans.
Many of today’s energy innovations would not exist without the groundbreaking work of African American pioneers. Their perseverance and ingenuity remind us that diverse perspectives and leadership are essential in shaping an equitable, clean energy future.
While Black History Month is a dedicated time for reflection and recognition, the achievements, stories, and voices of Black Americans must be uplifted year-round. That’s why this is the first article in a series that we’re planning to spotlight people, both past and present, who have made important, and often unrecognized, contributions connected to the SFPUC’s work of delivering clean drinking water, wastewater services and electrical power.