By James P. Womack, Daniel T. Jones
Published: 2003
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Jane Nelsen, Cheryl Erwin, M.A., Roslyn Ann Duffy
Amy Hood is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Microsoft, responsible for leading the company’s worldwide financial operations, including accounting, strategic planning, and treasury. Hood joined Microsoft in 2002 and became CFO in 2013, making her one of the most powerful women in tech. She has been a driving force behind Microsoft’s shift to cloud computing, helping to grow its Azure and Office 365 businesses, which have been key to the company's recent financial success. Hood is known for her analytical rigor and strategic thinking, often credited with streamlining operations and boosting profitability during her tenure. She has also played a critical role in Microsoft’s acquisitions, including LinkedIn and GitHub, further expanding the company’s portfolio. Hood is a vocal advocate for diversity and inclusion in the workplace, championing efforts to create a more equitable environment within Microsoft. Her leadership has earned her recognition as one of the most influential executives in the tech industry.
View CollectionAna Lorena Fabrega is an innovative educator and author passionate about reimagining education. Known as “Ms. Fab,” she is the Chief Evangelist at Synthesis, an education startup inspired by the problem-solving and collaboration model used at SpaceX. She advocates for alternative learning methods, encouraging curiosity and creativity in students. Ana's work emphasizes the importance of engaging young learners in real-world challenges and critical thinking. She also shares insights on education reform through her popular newsletter, Fab Fridays.
View CollectionAaron Levie is the co-founder and CEO of Box, a cloud content management platform that revolutionized how businesses manage and collaborate on content. He launched Box in 2005 while still a college student, and the company rapidly grew into a leader in the cloud storage industry. Levie is known for his innovative, forward-thinking approach to enterprise software and for pushing the boundaries of digital transformation. Under his leadership, Box went public in 2015 and continues to evolve with new technologies and partnerships. He is a strong advocate for cloud-first business strategies and frequently shares his insights on the future of work and the digital workplace. Levie is also a prolific speaker and writer, often discussing technology's role in the modern economy. His energetic and witty personality has made him a popular figure in Silicon Valley and beyond.
View CollectionBill Gates, co-founder of Microsoft Corporation, is a pioneering figure in the tech industry, having played a key role in the personal computer revolution. His work at Microsoft, particularly the development of Windows, transformed software and computing globally. Beyond his technology contributions, Gates is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "The Road Ahead" and "Business @ the Speed of Thought," which offer insights into the future of technology and business. Additionally, his philanthropic efforts through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation have had a profound impact on global health, education, and poverty. Gates continues to influence both technology and literature with his forward-thinking perspectives and innovative ideas.
View CollectionAndrew Grove was a pioneering figure in the technology industry, best known as the former CEO of Intel Corporation, where he played a crucial role in the development and popularization of the microprocessor. His leadership and vision were instrumental in transforming Intel into a leading semiconductor company. Grove authored several influential books on business and management, including "Only the Paranoid Survive," which has been widely acclaimed for its insights into strategic corporate survival and adaptation. His work has left a lasting impact on both the tech industry and business management practices. Beyond his professional achievements, Grove's personal story of overcoming adversity as a Hungarian immigrant escaping Nazi and Soviet oppression adds a compelling narrative to his legacy.
View CollectionAlfred Lin is a venture capitalist and partner at Sequoia Capital, where he focuses on investments in consumer internet, enterprise, and mobile companies. Lin is known for his early investments in companies like Airbnb and DoorDash, helping them grow into major global brands. Before joining Sequoia, Lin was an executive at Zappos, where he worked closely with CEO Tony Hsieh to develop the company’s innovative culture and customer service model. Lin’s expertise in scaling businesses and his strategic vision have made him one of the most respected venture capitalists in Silicon Valley.
View CollectionArianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and productivity. She is a bestselling author and prominent speaker on the importance of sleep and managing stress. Arianna’s work emphasizes the importance of balance between professional success and personal well-being. Her book The Sleep Revolution has inspired a global movement to prioritize rest. She is considered one of the most influential women in media and business.
View CollectionAdam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
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