Raye Montague, 'Hidden Figure' in the U.S. Navy, Remembered

Raye Montague, who was selected to be honored at the Silas Hunt Legacy Awards Celebration in November, died Oct. 10. She was recognized by the U.S. Navy as one of their "hidden figures" in the development of the computer design of all U.S. naval ships and a recipient. The University of Arkansas will honor her history of professional and service accomplishments posthumously.

Montague, born in 1935 and raised in Little Rock, fought against racism and sexism to become an internationally registered professional engineer (RPE) in the U.S. Navy. Montague earned a Bachelor of Science at the Arkansas AM&N (now the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff) and began her career in the Navy in 1956.

In 1970, she successfully completed a groundbreaking feat by designing the first computer-generated Navy ship. Montague collaborated with other defense agencies, the private sector, and the U.S. Naval Academy throughout her career. She received the Navy's Meritorious Civilian Service Award in 1972 and the Manufacturing Engineers Achievement Award in 1978. After 33 years of employment in the Navy, she retired in 1990 with the civilian equivalent rank of captain.  

Following her retirement, Montague became involved in service activities in Arkansas, including engagement with LifeQuest of Arkansas, The Links Inc., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, the Arkansas Association of University Women, and the American Contract Bridge League. In addition, she mentored students, particularly girls and young women interested in STEM careers. She entered the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame in 2013, the Arkansas Women's Hall of Fame in 2018, and the Arkansas Academy of Computing. Montague has left behind a legacy and commitment to education, hard work, perseverance, and inspiration.

Montague will be recognized for her professional and service accomplishments at the Silas Hunt Legacy Awards Celebration on Nov. 9 at the Fayetteville Town Center.