Late last week, Intel Corp. and the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation announced the death of semiconductor pioneer Gordon Moore at the age of 94.
Moore coined the theory on semiconductor development, which became the barometer for progress in the electronics industry. Called Moore’s Law, the theory states that the number of transistors on a semiconductor doubles every year.
“SIA mourns the loss of one of the greatest pioneers and innovators in history, Gordon Moore,” said John Neuffer, president and CEO of Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA). “His iconic vision, embodied by Moore’s Law, helped propel chip technology to new heights and inspire countless innovations that have changed the world forever and for the better. His passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will live for all time.”
Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger said Moore defined the technology industry through insight and vision. Moore was instrumental in revealing the power of transistors and inspired technologists and entrepreneurs across the decades, he said.
“We at Intel remain inspired by Moore's Law, and intend to pursue it until the periodic table is exhausted,” Gelsinger said. “Gordon's vision lives on as our true north as we use the power of technology to improve the lives of every person on Earth. My career and much of my life took shape within the possibilities fueled by Gordon's leadership at the helm of Intel, and I am humbled by the honor and responsibility to carry his legacy forward."
Moore’s career
Moore, along with Robert Noyce, founded Intel in July of 1968 and served the company as chairman, CEO and president until he gave up the CEO position in 1987. He remained as chairman emeritus until stepping down in 2006.
After his retirement, Moore spent time in California and Hawaii and served as the chairman for the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation. He also served as a member of the board of directors for the Conservation International and Gilead Sciences. He was also a member of the National Academy of Engineering, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Engineers and a Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.
During his lifetime, Moore focused on philanthropy including environmental conservation, science and patient care improvements. The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation donated more than $5.1 billion to charitable causes since its founding in 2000.
