In 1935, Gilbreth became the first female professor in the Purdue College of Engineering. She also accepted the role of consultant for careers for women and helped establish a time and motion study laboratory at Purdue. With her husband, Frank, she raised 12 children. The story of their family life has been recounted in numerous journal articles, books and films, notably "Cheaper by the Dozen." She retired from the University in 1948.