Jack Black, known for his roles in films like “School of Rock” and “Jumanji,” has a unique connection to the world of space exploration.
Born on August 28, 1969, Black’s birth coincided with a groundbreaking event that would later save the lives of the Apollo 13 astronauts.
His mother, Judith Love Cohen, played a vital role in this scientific achievement and had her own impressive career as an aerospace engineer.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Cohen developed a passion for mathematics and science at a young age.
In fifth grade, she was already being paid by her classmates to do their math homework.
Despite her clear talent and ambition, Cohen’s high school guidance counselor discouraged her from pursuing a career in engineering, suggesting she attend finishing school instead.
However, Cohen followed her true calling and began studying mathematics at Brooklyn College on a scholarship.
During this time, she also pursued her love for dance as a member of the New York Metropolitan Opera Ballet Company.
At the age of 21, Cohen moved to California to work as a junior engineer at North American Aviation.
She continued her education, attending classes at night while working full-time.
Throughout her bachelor’s and master’s degrees at USC Viterbi School of Engineering, Cohen never encountered another female engineering student.
This lack of representation only fueled her determination to succeed in a male-dominated field.
During her illustrious career, Cohen made significant contributions to various projects, including the Hubble Space Telescope and the Tracking and Data Relay Satellite on the Minuteman Missile.
However, it was her work with the Apollo Space Program that truly set her apart.
Her expertise as an electrical engineer proved invaluable during the Apollo 13 mission.
On the day of Jack Black’s birth, Cohen went into labor but still managed to stop by her office to pick up some important documents.
She even brought along a computer printout of the problem she had been working on.
Later that day, she called her boss to inform him that she had solved the problem and, oh yes, that she had given birth to a baby boy named Jack.
The problem Cohen had solved was crucial to the functioning of the Abort-Guidance System, which played a vital role in the safe return of the Apollo 13 crew.
When an oxygen tank in the service module failed two days into the mission, the crew had to abort their lunar landing and rely on the Abort-Guidance System to navigate their way back to Earth.
Cohen’s contribution ensured the astronauts’ safe return.
Cohen’s dedication to her work extended beyond her technical achievements.
Throughout her career, she advocated for better treatment and opportunities for women in the workplace.
Many practices that are now considered routine, such as posting job openings for all to apply and providing formal job descriptions, were introduced by Cohen.
After retiring from engineering, Cohen wrote a book titled “You Can Be A Woman Engineer” to inspire young girls to pursue careers in STEM fields.
Unable to find a publisher, she established her own publishing house, Cascade Pass, alongside her husband David A. Katz.
Cohen went on to publish 20 titles with Cascade Pass, including the Green series, which promoted environmental awareness among children.
Her efforts were recognized with the IEEE-USA Distinguished Literary Contributions Award in 2014.
In addition to Jack Black, Cohen had three other children from her first marriage: Neil Siegel, Howard Siegel, and Rachel Siegel.
Tragically, Howard passed away from HIV/AIDS in 1989 at the age of 31.
As for Jack Black’s career, it has been nothing short of remarkable.
He has appeared in numerous films, television shows, and video games, and is also a member of the Grammy-winning band Tenacious D. Black’s recent projects include the films “Jumanji: The Next Level” and “Apollo 10½,” both of which are currently in post-production.
Outside of his acting career, Black is known for his YouTube channel, Jablinski Games, where he shares gaming content and candid videos with his two sons.
He has also used his platform to raise awareness and funds for mental health issues.
Jack Black’s mother, Judith Love Cohen, left a lasting impact on both the world of aerospace engineering and the fight for gender equality in the workplace.
Her incredible birth story is a testament to her dedication and brilliance, and her legacy continues to inspire others to pursue their passions in STEM fields.
