Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak, a pioneering engineer whose legacy aligns with Cal Poly’s Learn by Doing culture, helped launch the personal computing era and remains a transformative force in technology.
Affectionately known as “Woz,” he forged a path for modern computing with his design of the Apple I, one of the earliest personal computers, making technology more accessible and inspiring generations of creators. His contributions laid a foundation for advancements that continue to drive Cal Poly’s forward-thinking classrooms and labs.
In 1976, Wozniak and Steve Jobs founded Apple Computer Inc., sparking a technological shift that reshaped personal computing. Wozniak’s development of the Apple II, with color graphics and a floppy disk drive, marked a turning point in the industry and established Apple’s reputation for bold, original design. His contributions also extended to the Macintosh, a cornerstone of the digital revolution. These breakthroughs transformed how people interact with technology, creating the connected world we experience today.
“Steve Wozniak embodies the spirit of creativity and entrepreneurship that we strive to instill in our students,” said Amy S. Fleischer, dean of the College of Engineering. “Trailblazers like Wozniak and Robert Noyce, for whom our Noyce School of Applied Computing is named, have set the stage for remarkable achievements. Their legacies continue to inspire the next generation of engineers and computer scientists at Cal Poly.”
Beyond his work at Apple, Wozniak’s dedication to education has been a lifelong pursuit. In 1981, he returned to UC Berkeley to complete his degree in electrical engineering and computer science, underscoring the importance he places on learning despite his professional success. Over the years, he has been awarded numerous honors, including 10 honorary Doctor of Engineering degrees, the National Medal of Technology from President Ronald Reagan in 1985, and induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2000.
In recent years, Wozniak launched Woz U, an educational platform designed to develop skills in software engineering and technology, with a focus on making tech education more accessible. His support for practical learning also includes adopting the Los Gatos School District, providing students and teachers with advanced technology and experiential tools to inspire imagination and problem-solving in the classroom.
Expanding his reach beyond formal education, Wozniak has championed STEM initiatives aimed at inspiring future innovators. He has been a founding sponsor of the Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose and The Tech Interactive, both dedicated to encouraging young minds to explore careers in science and technology. His philanthropic support further extends to organizations like the Electronic Frontier Foundation, which advocates for digital rights and privacy, and Ballet San Jose, reflecting his commitment to both the arts and a technology-forward future.
For students at Cal Poly, understanding Wozniak’s legacy goes beyond knowing his role in founding Apple — it’s about recognizing how his work exemplifies the intersection of creativity, engineering and entrepreneurship. His journey reminds students that their own ideas, combined with determination and curiosity, can spark lasting change in the world.
Wozniak will speak to a sold-out crowd at Cal Poly on Nov. 8, sharing lessons and insights from his career.
