Bill Hewlett

Full Name: William Hewlett
Profession: Electrical Engineer and Businessman

Biography: Bill Hewlett was an American engineer and businessman, known for co-founding one of the world's leading technology companies, Hewlett-Packard (HP), alongside Dave Packard. Their company, founded in 1939 in a one-car garage in Palo Alto, is now recognized as the birthplace of Silicon Valley, making Hewlett a central figure in the establishment of the technology industry in the United States.

Hewlett and Packard first met while they were electrical engineering students at Stanford University, under the mentorship of professor Frederick Terman. Terman, who is often referred to as the father of Silicon Valley, encouraged his students to start their own electronics company. The initial financial investment was very modest, with a capital of $538. The "Hewlett-Packard" name was decided on the basis of a coin toss.

Under Hewlett and Packard's leadership, the company became renowned for its management style, known as the "HP Way," which emphasized an open work environment and respect for the employees. This progressive management philosophy is recognized as a significant contribution to Silicon Valley's distinctive business culture.

Hewlett's specific technical contribution to the company was the development of the audio oscillator, one of HP's first breakthrough products. Walt Disney Studios, becoming one of their first major clients, purchased eight of these oscillators for use in the production of the film "Fantasia" (1940).

Bill Hewlett's lasting impact extends beyond HP. In 1966, he and his wife established the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, a philanthropic organization that provides funding for education, environmental conservation, and global development.

Born: May 20, 1913
Birthplace: Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA

Generation: Greatest Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Ox
Star Sign: Taurus

Died: January 12, 2001 (aged 87)
Cause of Death: Heart attack