Robert Noyce was a man with remarkable feats – an inventor, a founder, a mentor and an engineer. From a young age, Noyce showed the brilliance in him with a high intellect and astute mind. He began his career as a research engineer for Philco Corporation and later Shockley Semiconductor Laboratory. However, his stint at both the companies was short-lived. In 1957, he co-founded the influential Fairchild Semiconductor Corporation. It was during this time that he co-invented the integrated chip that revolutionized the semiconductor industry. His thirst for more led him to co-found Intel Corporation in 1968. In 1971, he made his second breakthrough by giving the world the first microprocessor. The microprocessor ushered the era of the computer age and fueled the personal computer revolution thus giving that stretch of California its well-famed name, the Silicon Valley. Intel’s huge success came in part due to Noyce’s relaxed management style. He wasn’t the flashy boss types and instead encouraged teamwork in employees. It was his unique style that has become a model for many Silicon Valley success stories. He also served as mentor to future bigwigs such as Steve Jobs.

“Don’t be encumbered by history, just go out and do something wonderful.”

“Optimism is an essential ingredient of innovation. How else can the individual welcome change over security, adventure over staying in safe places?”

“Innovation is everything. When you’re on the forefront, you can see what the next innovation needs to be. When you’re behind, you have to spend your energy catching up.”

“Start with a growing market. Swim in a stream that becomes a river and ultimately an ocean. Be a leader in that market, not a follower, and constantly build the best products possible.”