Bill Hewlett

Introduction to Bill Hewlett

Bill Hewlett was an American engineer who co-founded one of the world’s leading technology companies, Hewlett-Packard (HP), with David Packard.

Early Life and Education

He was born in 1913 in Ann Arbor, Michigan. His father was a respected physician who worked at the University of Michigan’s medical school. When Bill was three years old, he moved to San Francisco with his family in 1916, where he attended Lowell High School. He suffered from dyslexia, which made reading and writing difficult, but he showed tremendous potential in math and science. He developed a deep curiosity for the world around him. Despite struggling with dyslexia, Bill’s intellectual curiosity and sterling character earned him the admiration of his high school principal.

College Years and Meeting David Packard

Encouraged by his principal, Bill enrolled in Stanford University in 1930, where he met his future business partner, David Packard. The two men became close friends over their shared passion for electronics and engineering. Hewlett graduated from Stanford in 1934 with a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering and then went to MIT for his master’s degree, which he completed in 1936. He returned to Stanford for a post-master’s engineering degree, which he received in 1939.

The Founding of Hewlett-Packard

It was during this time that Bill Hewlett and David Packard decided to embark on an entrepreneurial journey that would shape the future of technology. They formed the Hewlett-Packard company as a partnership in 1939. The company’s name was decided by a coin toss, with Hewlett winning the toss.

The Garage Start: Birthplace of Silicon Valley

They set up their first workshop in a garage in Palo Alto, which is now considered the birthplace of Silicon Valley. They got their first big break when Disney purchased eight audio oscillators designed by Hewlett for the production of the film Fantasia.

HP’s Groundbreaking Innovations

Throughout its history, HP continued to push the boundaries of technology, spearheading numerous groundbreaking innovations. From the high-speed frequency counter, used by radio stations to meet FCC requirements, to the first desktop calculator and the first scientific handheld calculator, HP consistently revolutionized the computing landscape.

The HP LaserJet Printer Series

One of HP’s most remarkable achievements was the introduction of the HP LaserJet Printer series, which raised the bar in the industry. This technological advancement solidified HP’s position as a leader in the global market.

The HP Way: A People-Focused Culture

Hewlett and Packard were proud of their company’s culture, called the HP Way, which focused on building a corporate culture that respected and nurtured its employees.

Leadership and Global Expansion

Hewlett served as President of HP from 1964 to 1977 and as CEO from 1968 to 1978. He led the company through many milestones and oversaw the company’s global expansion across Europe, Asia, and Latin America.

Later Years and Legacy

Hewlett retired as CEO in 1978 but remained as chairman of the executive committee until 1983, and then as vice chairman of the board until 1987. Hewlett passed away in 2001 at the age of 87. His legacy as a pioneer of modern technology and a champion of corporate culture continues to inspire innovators worldwide.