Apple Co-Founder Speaks to Sellout Crowd
By Kurt Wagner
Steve Wozniak was the only kid on the block with his own ham radio license. Two years later, he had invented his first computer: a "simple" creation made from plywood and nails programmed to play tic-tac-toe.
As a college freshman at the University of California-Berkeley, Wozniak received an "A+" in the graduate level "Introduction to Computers" class but not before he spent time on probation for running too many programs and sending the class five times over budget.
To say that Wozniak was a natural in the field of engineering would be a gross understatement. "Being an engineer gives you the opportunity to be something other than an engineer which is an inventor," said Wozniak. "(An engineer) is what I always want to be known as."
Wozniak was on campus for a talk last Thursday night as part of the university's President's Speaker Series event. This year's theme, "Engineering with a Mission," has highlighted great minds in the field of engineering in celebration of the School of Engineering's centennial.
Last Thursday's talk, which took place in Mayer Theatre in front of a sellout crowd of 560, was mediated by Engineering Professor Ahmed Amer. The casual question and answer format allowed for Wozniak to convey personal stories, along with thoughts on current technology, advice for fellow engineers, and even jokes.
"I think the evening was a huge success," said Marketing Director in the Office of Marketing and Communications Margaret Avritt in an email. "It's always wonderful to have someone of Wozniak's importance make an appearance here at (Santa Clara)."
Since his invention of the Apple I and Apple II computers in 1976, the company's first line of personal computer technology, Wozniak has been known as a computer genius. But last week's talk allowed for attendees to catch a glimpse of a man who maintains an almost innocent, boyhood enthusiasm and excitement for his work. At times during the discussion, it was difficult to tell which was faster: Wozniak's brain or the speed at which he talked.
Most of the discussion focused on engineers and their role in our current technological landscape, especially in the Bay Area. As a Silicon Valley native, Wozniak had nothing but praise for the environment that has been created for entrepreneurs, engineers and businesses right here in Santa Clara's backyard.
"Every country in the world and every city in the world is trying to start their own ‘Silicon Valley,'" said Wozniak. "To find all the engineers in one place is really rare."
In addition to his work as an engineering mastermind, Wozniak has spent thousands of hours and millions of dollars spreading his knowledge and love of computers to future generations. In his hometown of Los Gatos, Wozniak has adopted the Los Gatos School District and donates computers and software to the students and teachers.But the giving extends far beyond the physical technological equipment as Wozniak teaches fifth graders and assists in training seminars and classes for faculty and students alike.
"Giving computers is just money. It doesn't have any meaning if you have the money," said Wozniak. "You give yourself if it's important."
Wozniak's humorous personality was on full display throughout the evening as he kept the audience laughing from the minute he walked on stage and revealed it takes him seven bins full of electronics to get through security at the airport. Wozniak admitted that playing practical jokes is one of his hobbies including watching movies and looking up funny YouTube videos to send to his friends.
The discussion in Mayer Theatre was preceded by an invitation-only reception for Wozniak and his wife, Janet, who both spent time mingling with alumni, professors, faculty and students.
Wozniak spent the evening surrounded by guests asking for pictures, shaking hands and telling jokes and stories.
Contact Kurt Wagner at jwagner@scu.edu or (408) 554-4852.