Each February, EEI celebrates Black History Month, which commemorates the achievements of Black Americans and highlights their central role in history. This year, EEI is recognizing Lewis H. Latimer, one of the first “pioneers” of the electric power industry.

In 1881, Latimer began working on improving Thomas Edison’s light bulb while employed by the United States Electric Lighting Company in Bridgeport, Conn. Latimer devised a way of encasing the filament within a cardboard envelope to prevent it from breaking, prolonging the life of the bulb. The new long-life bulb was more economical and more energy-efficient than previous bulbs.

On January 24, 1918, Latimer was named one of the 28 charter members—and the only Black member—of the "Edison Pioneers," a distinguished group of people who worked to keep the ideals of Thomas Edison alive. The “Edison Pioneers” are deemed responsible for creating the nation's electric power industry.

Learn more about Latimer’s life and legacy on the EEI website. The Association for the Study of African American Life and History provides more information about Black History Month.